Federal Agents Deployed to Airports Amid Shutdown Frustrations

Sun Mar 22 2026 20:31:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a bid to ease the long security lines at U.S. airports, President Trump's administration has ordered federal immigration agents to assist TSA, sparking varied reactions from lawmakers and travelers.

Federal immigration officers are being deployed to U.S. airports to help alleviate long security lines as the government shutdown continues. President Trump announced the move amid frustrations from travelers over wait times and unpaid TSA staff. The strategy is seen as a temporary measure to assist the overwhelmed TSA personnel, although opposition voices warn against using untrained immigration agents in this role. With Congress still at an impasse over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, the situation remains tense as travelers face uncertain wait times at airports.

WASHINGTON (AP) — In response to the ongoing government shutdown causing severe security line congestion at airports, President Donald Trump announced the deployment of federal immigration agents to assist the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). These agents may oversee exit lanes or check passenger IDs to streamline processes for travelers frustrated by hours-long waits.

Trump's decision comes after a meeting on Sunday, intending to alleviate the mounting pressure as air travelers face exceptionally long lines. The impact of the federal shutdown has resulted in significant financial strain on TSA personnel, with countless employees going without pay.

TSA, U.S. Secret Service, and Coast Guard employees have continued to work under the strain created by Congress's failure to renew funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) last month. Democratic leaders are voicing concerns regarding the operational changes and the conduct of the federal immigration officers involved.

White House border czar Tom Homan stated that they are strategizing on how best to implement this deployment, focusing initially on large airports where congestion is most severe, such as Atlanta and New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport.

Potential duties for the immigration officers may include managing exits where TSA agents are currently stationed or verifying IDs before passengers reach screening areas. Homan stressed that their aim is to be a “force multiplier,” aiding TSA without overstepping their training limitations.

The chaotic scenes at various airports raise public safety concerns regarding the involvement of immigration officers amid ongoing political tensions. With airport travel uncertain, many passengers are left guessing how early to arrive.”

As lawmakers continue to navigate funding discussions for the DHS, the airport security situation remains a critical concern for both travelers and airport officials alike.