DHS Shutdown Hits 30 Days, Causes TSA Airport Delays

The partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, now in its 30th day, has led to significant disruptions at U.S. airports, with Transportation Security Administration agents facing missed paychecks and resulting in staffing shortages that have caused security wait times of up to four hours at major hubs. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted these issues during an interview on Sunday, warning that the funding impasse is straining national security and travel operations as spring break travel ramps up for millions of passengers.

Duffy, speaking on Fox Business's Sunday Morning Futures, explained that TSA agents, who earn modest salaries, have begun seeking alternative employment such as driving for ride-sharing services or waiting tables to support their families. He reported that approximately 300 TSA agents have resigned since the shutdown began, and the number of callouts has doubled following the first full missed paycheck. These shortages have particularly affected busy airports, where lines have extended into parking areas, exacerbating delays for travelers, including families with children.

The shutdown stems from a congressional deadlock over DHS...