WASHINGTON (TNND) — A political clash over funding has erupted as the president renews his call for Congress to end sanctuary jurisdictions.

This comes amid heightened tensions following the killing of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, which has sparked a national crisis.

The president took to Truth Social overnight, urging Congress "to pass legislation to end sanctuary cities." He stated, "Starting Feb 1st, we are not making payments to sanctuary cities because they do everything possible to protect criminals."

In response, Senate Democrats are threatening to block a spending package that includes funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Sen. Chuck Schumer criticized the DHS bill as "woefully inadequate" in addressing ICE operations. Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar expressed strong opposition, calling for an overhaul of ICE, including new leadership and changes in training practices.

Democrats may have a stronger position as outrage grows within their base over Pretti's death. Meanwhile, the president's efforts to cut funding have faced setbacks. A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must continue funding child care subsidies and other social services to five Democratic-led states, including Minnesota, after an attempt to freeze $10 billion in funds.

If Democrats vote against the spending package and no deal is reached, it could lead to a partial government shutdown. However, ICE operations would remain largely unaffected due to a $75 billion boost from a previous bill signed by the president.