TSA wait times stretch up to 6 hours as ICE and other Homeland Security agents deployed to 14 airports
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- The Trump administration deployed ICE and Homeland Security agents to 14 airports to assist with overcrowded TSA checkpoints amid a partial government shutdown causing mass TSA officer call-outs.
- Over 3,400 TSA officers, nearly 12% of scheduled staff, called out on Sunday, leading to severe staffing shortages and wait times up to six hours at airports like Houston's George Bush Intercontinental.
- Security lines at major airports such as Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson extended outside terminals, causing significant traveler delays and frustration.
- Some TSA officers and union representatives expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of federal agents filling in, citing lack of proper training and involvement.
- President Trump instructed federal agents not to wear masks at airports and suggested National Guard troops might be deployed if the shutdown continues.
