Government Shutdown Day 41: Airport Chaos, TSA Quits

Government Shutdown Hits Day 41: DHS Operations Grind to a Halt, TSA Screeners Cause Airport Chaos

The government shutdown enters its 41st day, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operations significantly impacted, particularly immigration enforcement. Republican senators proposed funding for most DHS areas, excluding removal operations, and added body camera rules for agents. The Senate plans to vote on this proposal this afternoon, but Democrats push for additional protections like agent ID badges and raid limits makes passage uncertain.

Meanwhile, unpaid TSA screeners are causing significant disruptions at major airports, with travelers facing long security lines and potential airport closures. The situation is particularly dire at George Bush Intercontinental in Houston, where lines can last up to four hours, and at Atlantas airport, where lines snake outside terminals. Passengers are missing flights, being stuck overnight, and switching seats without additional costs. Over 480 TSA officers have quit due to financial struggles and increased assaults, which have surged by over 500%.

New DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin attended his first Cabinet meeting, where President Trump blamed Democrats and threatened drastic measures. Trump has already deployed ICE officers to help with crowd control and ID checks at airports and considered calling up the National Guard, despite legal limitations on federal troops roles.

TSAs acting head warns that some airports may shut down if lines worsen, and FEMAs disaster funds are rapidly dwindling. Negotiations over immigration changes continue, leaving travelers and workers in limbo as pressure mounts for a resolution.

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