The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) partially reversed course on Sunday morning regarding the suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs, which had been halted due to staffing shortages from the partial government shutdown. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stated on social media that "TSA PreCheck remains operational with no change for the traveling public," adding that adjustments would be made on a case-by-case basis as staffing constraints arise.
However, a DHS official told the Washington Post that Global Entry would remain suspended. The reversal was "based off of conversations the secretary had with the White House and TSA," the official said. The programs, which have millions of enrolled users, provide expedited security screening for pre-approved travellers.
The decision drew sharp criticism from air transport groups. Chris Sununu, president of Airlines for America, expressed concern that travellers were being "used as a political football." Geoff Freeman of the US Travel Association accused lawmakers of putting politics first, calling it "disgraceful for travel to be used as leverage." After the PreCheck restoration, Freeman urged the same for Global Entry, noting the programs are funded by user fees.
The partial shutdown began on 14 February after Democrats and the White House failed to agree on funding for DHS, with Democrats demanding changes to immigration operations tied to Donald Trump's mass deportation campaign. Democrats on the House homeland security committee accused the administration of "kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure." Senator Andy Kim said the administration was "trying to weaponize our government" to create political leverage.
