Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem appeared before congressional panels this week to outline and defend the Trump Administration's proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the Department of Homeland Security. The proposal seeks funding shifts, increasing resources for border security while cutting budgets for other agencies.
The proposed budget would boost funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Patrol. However, it would reduce appropriations for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Transportation Security Administration (TSA).Cuts to CISA are proposed at $491 million, roughly 20% of its current budget. The Trump Administration states these cuts target "duplicative" programs and offices handling "misinformation and propaganda" and external engagement.
Proposed reductions at TSA involve cutting $247 million from screening operations, attributed by Noem to eliminating unfilled positions and directing officers to core duties rather than tasks like monitoring exit lanes. This plan to eliminate exit lane staffing by TSA officers has faced opposition from airports.FEMA grant spending also faces cuts, with a proposed $646 million reduction in non-discretionary grants. This follows the termination of the BRIC program, which a FEMA spokesperson described as "wasteful and ineffective." House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole has supported BRIC grants as a means of disaster mitigation.
Discussions around FEMA funding occur as a review council, co-led by Kristi Noem and Pete Hegseth, examines potential reforms. President Donald Trump has suggested empowering states to lead disaster response with the federal government in support, potentially eliminating FEMA as it exists today.
In the Senate, Ranking Member Chris Murphy of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security accused the agency of overspending, claiming it could run out of money before the fiscal year ends. Democrats Accuse Homeland Security Chief of Running Down Budget He also alleged the administration is illegally impounding funds and ignoring immigration laws, including the asylum process.Senator Murphy specifically pressed Secretary Noem on the Supreme Court's order regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a case he cited as an example of the administration disregarding legal requirements. Noem stated the administration complies with court orders but maintained Mr. Abrego Garcia, an El Salvador citizen, would not return to the United States.
Lawmakers across the political spectrum have sought further details on the rationale behind the proposed budget cuts. House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei requested more information to understand the basis for reductions like those at CISA.
"It is your absolute prerogative to make changes," Amodei said. "Please tell us."
