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Trump Plans to Deploy ICE Agents to Airports Amid DHS Funding Standoff

KVIA•Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 9:15 PM•ABC News

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AI Summary

President Trump announced his intention to deploy ICE agents to U.S. airports starting Monday if Democrats do not agree to a funding package to resolve the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown. This announcement follows repeated Democratic blockages of funding legislation, which has resulted in thousands of TSA employees missing paychecks and travelers experiencing long wait times at security checkpoints. The White House has not clarified the specific roles ICE agents will play at airports. Lawmakers are urged to negotiate a deal to prevent further disruptions to airport operations and TSA staffing.

Key Details: • Deployment of ICE agents to begin on Monday if no agreement is reached. • DHS has been in a partial shutdown since mid-February. • Travelers are currently facing long lines and delays at airports. • TSA employees have missed their first full paychecks due to the shutdown. • Senate leaders are calling for immediate negotiations to resolve the funding impasse.

politics ice dhs tsa shutdown

People & Organizations

Department of Homeland SecurityDonald TrumpChuck SchumerTransportation Security AdministrationJohn ThuneTom HomanSean Duffy

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