Trump Threatens ICE Deployment at Airports Amid Government Shutdown

Sat Mar 21 2026 21:53:36 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

President Donald Trump announced plans to deploy ICE agents to airports starting Monday unless Democrats agree to fund the Department of Homeland Security, intensifying issues linked to the ongoing government shutdown.

In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump stated he would mobilize U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents for airport security if Democrats do not resolve the funding impasse for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This announcement comes as the partial government shutdown has created long wait times at airports. Trump indicated that the deployment would focus on illegal immigrants, particularly from Minnesota, where tensions have flared over alleged immigration issues. The situation highlights the increasing pressures on TSA workers, who are affected by the funding lapse but are considered essential personnel.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced on Saturday his intention to deploy federal immigration officers to assist with airport security starting Monday unless Democrats agree on a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In a series of social media posts, Trump asserted that if the congressional stalemate persists, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be stationed at various airports amid reports of extended wait times for passengers at some of the nation's busiest terminals.

The President indicated that this deployment would extend the administration’s immigration enforcement policies directly into airports, vowing to apprehend 'all illegal immigrants.' 'I look forward to moving ICE in on Monday, and have already told them to, “GET READY.” NO MORE WAITING, NO MORE GAMES!' Trump declared while in Florida over the weekend.

This move appears to be a strategic effort to escalate immigration enforcement during a Congress session overshadowed by ongoing tensions regarding funding for the DHS. Democrats have expressed strong opposition to the funding plan, citing a recent operation in Minnesota that resulted in the deaths of two protesters and raised concerns over federal law enforcement practices. They are demanding improvements to identification protocols for federal officers, new codes of conduct, and increased use of judicial warrants.

Critics note that Trump's comments and proposed deployments reinforce a contentious narrative surrounding immigration enforcement, particularly regarding allegations of fraud involving Somali residents in Minnesota. The President specifically targeted Somali immigrants, asserting they have caused significant disruption in the state.

Trump's posts lacked clarity on what role ICE would play in airport security and how this would affect the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which is charged with screening passengers and baggage for safety. While the vast majority of TSA personnel are deemed essential and are required to work without pay during the funding lapse, call-out rates have risen significantly. At least 376 TSA employees have resigned since the onset of the shutdown.

The Senate is reportedly working to find a bipartisan solution, but frustration remains high, as a motion by Democrats to discuss legislation to resume funding of the TSA was rejected. Calls continue for urgent action as airport lines could worsen without immediate resolution.