Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have been deployed to at least 13 major US airports, including New York City, Houston, and Atlanta, following President Donald Trump's threat to mobilise federal law enforcement during the partial government shutdown. The shutdown has reduced airport staffing and caused long security lines.
The exact role of the armed ICE officers, who wear military-style vests, remains unclear. Trump claims they are relieving TSA workers and providing security, but ICE agents cannot perform TSA screening duties. Critics question the effectiveness of the deployment, as travellers continue to face hours-long waits.
ICE agents were seen standing around terminals on Monday while TSA workers, who have been unpaid for weeks, struggle with increased sick leave and resignations. Over a third of TSA officers at Atlanta's airport have called out sick. Most airports now advise travellers to arrive at least four hours early.
Trump has suggested deploying the National Guard if needed, and described airports as 'fertile territory' for arresting undocumented immigrants. The move has drawn mixed reactions from passengers, with some expressing concern about the presence of armed officers. Civil rights groups and unions argue it injects fear and potential violence.
The shutdown stems from a congressional stalemate over funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have proposed separate bills to fund TSA, but Republicans have rejected them. Trump has linked the dispute to the SAVE America Act, an unrelated bill on elections and transgender rights, which he calls 'far more important' than ending the crisis.
