Senate Republicans pushed a $70 billion immigration bill after Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche declared the Justice Department would not fund a $1.8 billion anti‑weaponization scheme. The move aimed to secure votes for the Trump‑era enforcement budget.

Blanche’s testimony followed bipartisan backlash over the fund, which many GOP senators had threatened to block. By removing the controversial $1.8 billion line, leaders hoped to unite the party and advance the bill in the Senate.

Despite the withdrawal, the bill still contains a tax‑audit exemption for President Trump, his family and businesses, a clause that could expose Republicans to criticism. Democrats seized on the exemption, labeling the deal a “slush fund” that favors a billionaire.

Republican leaders, including Majority Leader John Thune, view the bill as a necessary step to fund ICE and CBP. The legislation now faces a tight floor vote that will test the party’s cohesion.