US airports face shutdown as DHS funding crisis leaves TSA workers unpaid
A funding standoff has left the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in crisis, with airports at risk of shutdown. The dispute between Democrats and Republicans has blocked vital funding, leaving 50,000 TSA agents unpaid. Both sides remain dug in, with no resolution in sight as Congress prepares for a two-week recess.
The deadlock centres on immigration enforcement rules, particularly reforms to ICE operations. Democrats have rejected the White House's funding proposals, calling them insufficient without broader changes. Senate Democrats refuse to back any DHS funding bill that doesn't include significant ICE reforms.
Republicans accuse Democrats of holding the department hostage, warning that vulnerable incumbents like Sen. Jon Ossoff will face political backlash. Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted the strain on airports, where understaffing and severe weather are worsening the crisis. A top official confirmed that some airports may soon close if funding isn't restored.
The dispute comes at a critical time, with heightened security threats and the confirmation process for Trump's DHS nominee, Sen. Markwayne Mullin, now caught in the crossfire. Both parties admit the shutdown could stretch for weeks, leaving TSA workers without pay and key services at risk.
The funding freeze has left 50,000 TSA employees unpaid for another week, pushing airports toward a breaking point. Without an agreement, closures and further disruptions are likely. The standoff shows no signs of ending before Congress returns from recess.
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