WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump threatened to deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to U.S. airports if congressional Democrats do not fund airport safety. The move comes as the government shutdown continues, affecting TSA workers who have missed paychecks.
ICE agents, not trained for airport security, have been central to Trump's immigration crackdown. TSA officers have called in sick, causing travel disruptions. Over 400 TSA workers have quit since the shutdown began.
Democrats criticized Trump's proposal, calling it reckless and dangerous. Senator Richard Blumenthal said ICE agents should not be used in airports. Representative Bennie Thompson accused Trump of creating chaos for political gain.
Elon Musk offered to cover TSA paychecks during the funding impasse. Experts say using ICE agents may be slower but better than no security. ICE has faced backlash after recent operations that led to fatal shootings in Minnesota.
Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem amid criticism of immigration policies. The Senate is considering a new DHS secretary. Democrats demand TSA reforms, while Republicans oppose them.