TSA Agent Resignations Surge as ICE Deploys to U.S. Airports
1 week ago
Immigration agents began deploying to more than a dozen U.S. airports Monday as a growing number of TSA officers quit or call out during the ongoing government shutdown, creating major disruptions for travelers nationwide.
Hundreds of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were sent to airports in cities including New York, Newark, New Orleans, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Phoenix. The move comes as staffing shortages among Transportation Security Administration workers lead to long lines and delays.
Federal officials say more than 400 TSA employees have resigned since the shutdown began on February 14, with absentee rates climbing to 11.5%—the highest level in weeks. Authorities warn those numbers could continue to rise as workers remain unpaid.
The deployment follows comments from President Donald Trump, who said ICE agents could assist at airports amid the staffing crisis. However, officials say ICE personnel are not currently being used in secured screening areas due to lack of specialized training and clearance.
The situation has added to growing concerns among travelers, some of whom described chaotic scenes and uncertainty about safety at airports.
Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security remains at the center of a political standoff in Washington, as lawmakers debate funding and push for changes to immigration enforcement policies.
Hundreds of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were sent to airports in cities including New York, Newark, New Orleans, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Phoenix. The move comes as staffing shortages among Transportation Security Administration workers lead to long lines and delays.
Federal officials say more than 400 TSA employees have resigned since the shutdown began on February 14, with absentee rates climbing to 11.5%—the highest level in weeks. Authorities warn those numbers could continue to rise as workers remain unpaid.
The deployment follows comments from President Donald Trump, who said ICE agents could assist at airports amid the staffing crisis. However, officials say ICE personnel are not currently being used in secured screening areas due to lack of specialized training and clearance.
The situation has added to growing concerns among travelers, some of whom described chaotic scenes and uncertainty about safety at airports.
Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security remains at the center of a political standoff in Washington, as lawmakers debate funding and push for changes to immigration enforcement policies.
