 "Partial US government shutdown hits record length, triggers travel disruptions and TSA shortages")
The partial US government shutdown has become the longest in American history, stretching into its 44th day as lawmakers remain locked in a standoff over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The ongoing deadlock between Republicans and Democrats has begun to disrupt daily operations, particularly at airports.
Thousands of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have been working without pay, leading to staff shortages as some quit and others call in sick. This has resulted in long queues and delays at security checkpoints across the country.
US President Donald Trump said TSA workers could begin receiving pay early next week after signing an order to free up funds, though the move may face legal challenges since Congress is responsible for authorising federal spending.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said he was prepared to “pay them [TSA agents] for as long as we need to” but urged Congress to pass a funding bill.
White House border czar Tom Homan said Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents deployed to airports would remain in place even after the shutdown ends.
“Look, we’re going to continue a nice presence there,” he said, adding, “We need to secure those airports. ICE is there to help our brothers and sisters in TSA. We’ll be there as long as they need us.”
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View AllShutdown began on Feb 14
The shutdown began on February 14 after lawmakers failed to agree on DHS funding.
While the Senate passed a compromise bill aimed at partially reopening the department, it was rejected by Republicans in the House of Representatives, who instead backed a short-term measure funding the department in full.
Democrats have opposed funding without reforms to immigration enforcement, including restrictions on ICE practices.
Republicans, meanwhile, insist on stronger immigration provisions and voter ID requirements, prolonging the stalemate.
The impact on TSA has been significant. Around 500 officers have reportedly quit, and thousands more have called out of work.
On one day alone, more than 3,500 officers – over 12 per cent of the workforce – were absent, contributing to widespread airport delays.
With Congress currently on a two-week break and no agreement in sight, the shutdown shows no immediate signs of ending, raising concerns over continued disruptions and the country’s preparedness for major upcoming events.
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