WASHINGTON D.C. — Representative Gregory Meeks has issued a stern call to action for House Republicans, urging them to end the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown and stop “holding the American people hostage.”

In a recent statement, Meeks highlighted the growing impact of the shutdown on essential federal employees and national security infrastructure. Key points from his address include:

• Financial Strain on Essential Workers: Meeks emphasized that critical personnel, such as TSA agents, are currently working without pay [00:07]. He urged for immediate action to ensure these individuals receive their salaries and to “stop the chaos at the airport” caused by the legislative deadlock [00:14].
• Demands for ICE Reform: The Congressman pointed out that while funding is crucial, the American public is also demanding significant reforms within agencies like ICE. He specifically criticized practices such as agents wearing masks without identification and conducting warrantless arrests or detaining legal residents and citizens [00:27].
• Accountability: Meeks argued that Republicans must step up and align with what the American people want, which is a functional government that pays its workers while simultaneously addressing systemic issues within immigration enforcement [01:03].

“The Republicans have to stop holding the American people hostage,” Meeks concluded, reiterating that the rest of the federal workforce should be paid while Congress works through the necessary reforms [01:03].

Video Source: Rep. Meeks on House Republicans Prolonging the DHS Shutdown