US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have deployed to major airports across the country, helping to fill the void as thousands of security staff who are going without pay refuse to work.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees are increasingly absent, having not received pay in weeks due to a partial government shutdown that began on February 14.
Their absence has created huge queues and hours-long wait times at airport security checkpoints. More than 3,400 TSA agents called out of work on a recent Sunday.
On Monday, White House border tsar Tom Homan confirmed that hundreds of ICE agents had been deployed to 14 airports, including major hubs in New York, Atlanta, and Houston. Photos from airports such as New York's JFK and Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson depicted agents assisting with general duties, although they were not wearing required protective masks, contrary to protocols established for other settings.
Reported TSA absences reached over 40% at several airports, resulting in significant operational disruptions and long wait times for travelers, some of whom are advised to arrive three to four hours before their flights. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported cases of travelers sleeping at airports due to the extensive delays.
With airport leaders expressing deep concerns in a letter to Congress, there is pressure for immediate action to resolve the ongoing legislative gridlock impacting agency funding. ICE agents have reportedly been utilized for non-specialized support roles to enable TSA staff to focus more effectively on aviation security.
Despite the assistance, the deployment of ICE has met criticism, particularly regarding the agency's immigration enforcement history and public perception. Leaders of civil rights organizations have voiced concerns about safety and preparedness, highlighting the potential for racial profiling in their operational capabilities.
As the shutdown persists with no resolution in sight, TSA and other DHS employees are left without pay, creating a tumultuous atmosphere for both employees and travelers alike as they head into one of the busiest travel periods.
