Another failed attempt in the Senate to fund DHS is not stopping lawmakers from continuing negotiations Thursday.
One GOP senator has said talks to end the deadlock have increased.
Meanwhile, Senator John Cornyn expressed optimism this week that they could find a solution soon.
"I'm optimistic we'll find a way to get them paid by the end of the week," Senator Cornyn said. "These antics are not a way to govern."
Democrats have been demanding reforms to ICE and immigration enforcement by the Trump administration.
The Trump administration also sent some ICE agents to airports dealing with long lines because of TSA workers quitting or calling in sick.
"The truth is, as we've seen in videos and social media, ICE agents are handing out water bottles to travelers and helping to keep the flow of traffic organized and hopefully expedited," Cornyn said.
