Union For 18,000 Border Patrol Agents Warns Shutdown Threatens CBP Operations And Pay, Presses Senate To Pass CR

The National Border Patrol Council, representing roughly 18,000 agents, urged the Senate to pass a short-term funding bill, warning that a shutdown would jeopardize patrol vehicles, radios, infrastructure, and agent pay—creating a life-or-death risk for border security operations. GOP leaders echoed the urgency while criticizing Democratic demands tied to healthcare provisions. The CR would extend funding through Nov. 21 and requires bipartisan support to clear the Senate’s 60-vote threshold. The push reflects heightened efforts to protect CBP workforce continuity amid shutdown brinkmanship.