Senate Votes Today on 2026 Shutdown: Live Updates and News
Travelers face growing security delays as the partial government shutdown stretches into its 33rd day. Senate votes today remain a focus, but a vote to reopen DHS is not expected when the chamber returns at noon on March 18.
Airports report longer TSA lines and staffing shortfalls. Officials warn that some hubs could face operational shutdowns if the lapse continues.
Senate standoff and schedule
The Senate will begin extended debate on the SAVE America Act after a test vote on the SAVE Act passed Tuesday. Leaders John Thune and Chuck Schumer prepared for a prolonged floor fight that could last days or weeks.
No Senate vote to end the DHS funding lapse is scheduled. The partial shutdown is likely to reach day 34 on March 19, tying a historical shutdown length.
Impact on airports and TSA
TSA is operating under a partial shutdown with about 50,000 essential workers on the job. Many are working with little or no pay, and callout rates have nearly doubled.
Hundreds of TSA employees have quit, and wait times have grown at major airports. Reported congestion includes JFK, Atlanta, Houston, New Orleans, and Milwaukee.
DHS funding and agency pay
The lapse stems from an unresolved DHS funding bill in the 2026 budget. A House-backed measure has failed three times in the Senate and still needs 60 votes to pass.
The Coast Guard continues to receive pay through discretionary funds. ICE and Border Patrol remain funded under the One Big Beautiful Bill, while many FEMA and TSA civilian staff face unpaid periods.
Policy talks and oversight demands
Democrats have pushed for tighter oversight of ICE after the fatal shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minnesota. The administration offered a counterproposal that would expand body-worn cameras and restrict certain enforcement activities at schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
The counteroffer does not include a ban on masks, a point of contention in negotiations. Those bargaining positions help explain why a shutdown-ending vote remains stalled.
Travel pressures and how to follow developments
Spring break and March Madness have increased travel volumes. The extra traffic has amplified delays at security checkpoints across the country.
Viewers can watch Senate proceedings and live updates on Senate.gov or C-SPAN. Filmogaz.com will publish live updates and news as the situation evolves.
