President Donald J. Trump announced Wednesday that he is considering the deployment of the National Guard to manage security operations at major U.S. airports. The statement comes as a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security enters its 40th day.
In a message posted to his verified Truth Social account, President Trump attributed current travel disruptions to congressional Democrats. He alleged that the opposition party broke previously negotiated agreements to prioritize the needs of illegal immigrants over American citizens.
The President highlighted the current role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in maintaining airport operations during the impasse. "Thank you to our great ICE Patriots for helping," he wrote, adding that he "may call up the National Guard for more help."
The partial shutdown, which began on February 14, 2026, has left approximately 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers working without pay. This financial strain has led to a significant staffing crisis across the nation's aviation sector.
According to DHS records, over 450 TSA officers have resigned since the funding impasse began. Major hubs, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have reported officer call-out rates as high as 37 percent on certain days.
Under the direction of Border Czar Tom Homan, ICE agents have already been deployed to at least 12 major airports. These include facilities in Chicago, New Orleans, Orlando, and Atlanta, where they are assisting with traveler screening and security measures.
Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin remains at the center of the crisis as Senate negotiators attempt to reach a compromise. Current proposals suggest a temporary measure to pay TSA officers while delaying broader debates over ICE enforcement funding.
Travelers have faced record-long security lines and significant flight delays throughout the spring-break season. DHS officials have warned that some terminals could face partial closures if staffing levels do not stabilize soon.
Public reaction to the potential military involvement remains divided. While some supporters advocate for federal intervention to secure transit hubs, others have expressed concern regarding the potential militarization of civilian travel spaces.