Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy issued a stark warning Sunday that security checkpoint delays at U.S. airports are poised to worsen significantly in the coming days. The ongoing partial government shutdown, now stretching into its fourth week, has left Transportation Security Administration officers working without pay, with many expected to miss their second consecutive paycheck this week.
"I think you're going to see more TSA agents, as we come to Thursday, Friday, Saturday of next week, they're going to quit or they're not going to show up," Duffy told ABC's "This Week." He emphasized the personal financial strain on officers, stating, "Without getting paychecks, it's even that much more challenging. They're going to take other jobs to put food on the table and pay the rent."
Mounting Operational Pressure
Duffy acknowledged that the deteriorating situation could apply political pressure on Congress to reach a funding resolution. The Department of Homeland Security has reported that more than 360 TSA officers have resigned since the shutdown began in late February, while a growing number of employees are calling out from work. This absenteeism has already translated to longer security wait times at major airports nationwide.
In a bid to manage the crisis, the Trump administration announced Saturday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers would be deployed to airports starting Monday to assist with security operations. Duffy explained that ICE personnel possess relevant experience, noting, "They run those same type of security machines at the southern border... They run similar assets." He added they could help manage passenger flow and provide administrative support.
Uncertain Contingency Plan
Details about the ICE deployment remain unclear. White House border advisor Tom Homan told CNN the administration was working to finalize a plan before Monday, suggesting officers could help mitigate long lines. The move represents an unusual cross-agency response to a domestic operational crisis stemming directly from the budgetary impasse.
Duffy publicly appealed to TSA employees to continue reporting for duty, assuring them, "They're going to get paid." He stated, "I'm asking for them to come to work... They make family decisions that are right on behalf of their finances. But we want them to come." This plea comes as the shutdown threatens to disrupt operations at smaller airports, which may temporarily pause services if callout rates continue climbing.
The situation underscores the broader instability within DHS during the funding lapse. The agency's leadership is navigating multiple challenges, as seen when Acting Secretary Mullin assumed command amid intense scrutiny over management and temperament. Furthermore, the domestic travel disruptions occur alongside international tensions, following the recent State Department's global travel alert issued during the ongoing Iran conflict.
Duffy's warning highlights how the political stalemate over homeland security funding has tangible, escalating consequences for national travel infrastructure. With no resolution in sight, the administration's emergency measures—including repurposing immigration enforcement personnel—signal a deepening operational crisis that could soon impact millions of travelers during peak travel periods.
