Summary
ICE agents are helping at major U.S. airports because many TSA workers are not working as they haven't been paid during a partial government shutdown. This situation has led to long waiting times at airport security checkpoints. The White House and Congress are in a disagreement over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which is affecting TSA operations.
Key Facts
- ICE agents are stationed at major U.S. airports to assist during long security lines.
- Many TSA employees have not been paid for weeks due to a government shutdown starting February 14.
- On a recent weekend, more than 3,400 TSA workers called out sick.
- ICE agents have been sent to 14 major airports, including New York, Atlanta, and Houston.
- President Trump mentioned ICE agents are not wearing masks at airports to avoid causing alarm.
- Passengers at some airports are advised to arrive several hours early due to delays.
- The Department of Homeland Security states that some travelers are staying overnight at airports to avoid missing flights.
- The funding conflict involves disagreements about changes to immigration enforcement policies.
