Senate Democrats have blocked a government funding package that would have funded the Department of Homeland Security and several other agencies, as negotiations continue to avoid another government shutdown. AdvertisementBREAKING: Democrats block a government funding package in the Senate as negotiations continue with the White House to avert a shutdown. Thursday’s 45-55 test vote came as Democrats have threatened a partial government shutdown when money runs out on Friday. Democrats have threatened to shut down the government if they don't get their way on reforming ICE. Senate Democrats voted on Thursday to block legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security as they continue to negotiate with Republicans on immigration enforcement and hopefully avoid another government shutdown.