Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., announced on Mar. 26 his support for the passage of the fiscal year 2026 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill, which he said will help keep America safe, reduce airport security wait times, assist Western North Carolinians recovering from disasters, and counter cyber threats.
The issue is important because DHS plays a central role in securing borders and coasts, ensuring airport safety, defending against foreign cyberattacks, and coordinating federal disaster responses. Funding for DHS affects not only national security but also federal workers who carry out these responsibilities.
“I am proud to once again support funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and keep the federal government open for the American people,” said Congressman Greg Murphy. “DHS keeps our borders and coasts secure, our airports safe, counters foreign attacks on our nation’s digital infrastructure, and coordinates the federal government’s response to natural disasters, like Hurricane Helene. Unfortunately, Democrats continue to obstruct funding for our federal workers and their critical jobs for partisan politics. I do not feel it is right, regardless of who is causing this disaster, that members of Congress should receive pay when our affected federal workers are not. So, I am withholding my personal pay until Congress fulfills its obligation.”
Murphy has maintained electoral success in recent years: In 2024 he defeated Gheorghe Cormos with over three-quarters of the vote according to available election results; in 2022 he won against Barbara Gaskins by a wide margin; in 2020 he prevailed over Daryl Farrow; and in a special election in 2019 he beat Allen Thomas.
The ongoing debate over DHS funding reflects broader political disagreements about government spending priorities. As reported by official election records from past cycles—Murphy’s repeated victories indicate strong support among voters in his district.
Looking ahead, Murphy’s decision to withhold his own congressional pay until affected federal employees are compensated highlights continued tensions around budget negotiations and legislative responsibility.