ICE agents start appearing in US airports amid shutdown chaos

AFP / France 24
by FRANCE24
March 24, 2026
3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Trump administration deploys ICE agents to at least 14 U.S. airports to assist TSA during government shutdown security delays.

How This Affects You

Travelers at major airports like New York, Chicago, and Atlanta may experience ICE agent presence at security checkpoints during the shutdown.

AI Summary

The Trump administration has deployed ICE agents to at least 14 major U.S. airports, including New York, Chicago, and Atlanta, to support TSA staff during the ongoing government shutdown. Security checkpoints at airports nationwide have faced severe congestion as the TSA operates without regular funding, creating extended wait times for travelers. The deployment represents an unusual use of immigration enforcement personnel to address operational gaps in airport screening during a crisis that has left many federal agencies understaffed. The move reflects the administration's effort to maintain airport security operations while Congress remains deadlocked on funding legislation. It remains unclear how long the shutdown will persist or whether this temporary deployment will continue if funding is restored.

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