House Speaker Mike Johnson said Sunday he is “open to a number of federal immigration enforcement reforms,” even as negotiations over government funding and border policy remain tense. Appearing on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Johnson said progress depends on both parties working together and warned talks would stall if proposals were framed as “ultimatums rather than starting points.”

Pressure is mounting as a partial government shutdown continues. The Senate passed a $1.2 trillion funding package that includes a short-term extension for the Department of Homeland Security, but the House was in recess, allowing funding for roughly 78% of the federal government to expire. House Democrats have declined to fast-track the Senate plan, pointing to unresolved policy disputes and procedural concerns.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has proposed changes to how ICE and CBP operate, including banning roving patrols, expanding warrant requirements, creating a code of conduct, and limiting the use of masks. He described the proposals as necessary to restore public trust, arguing that rejecting them would amount to choosing “disorder over stability.”

Johnson said he agrees with some of Schumer’s ideas, particularly banning roving patrols and requiring body cameras. However, he strongly defended the use of masks, saying they are needed to protect officers and their families, and cautioned that broader warrant requirements could hinder enforcement. He emphasized the need for oversight without sacrificing efficiency.

The debate intensified after a federal judge declined to halt Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez ruled that the state and cities failed to meet the legal standard for an injunction and said her decision was “not a final judgment,” allowing the lawsuit to continue.