Washington, March 20, 2026 (Agencies) – The administration of US President Donald Trump has deployed hundreds of immigration enforcement officers to major airports across the United States in response to severe staffing shortages and prolonged passenger delays.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations have been sent to more than a dozen airports, including John F Kennedy International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Additional deployments were reported at Newark Liberty International Airport.
The move comes amid mounting congestion at airport security checkpoints following a prolonged funding dispute that has affected the Transportation Security Administration. Reports indicate that some TSA personnel have been working without pay since mid-February, leading to increased absenteeism and resignations.
Officials said the immigration agents are assisting in non-specialized roles to ease pressure on TSA staff, allowing trained officers to focus on critical screening operations.
However, the deployment has sparked criticism from lawmakers and observers. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries warned that assigning immigration agents to airport duties could create security and operational risks, arguing they lack the necessary training for such environments.
Even within the Republican Party, concerns have emerged, with Senator Lisa Murkowski describing the move as a “bad idea.”
Trump, speaking to reporters, also commented on operational aspects, stating that he had asked deployed agents to remove face masks at airports.
US border security chief Tom Homan defended the decision, saying ICE personnel would strictly follow security protocols and perform support tasks such as monitoring exits to help reduce congestion.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions over immigration policy and federal funding, with critics warning that the move could further strain airport operations while supporters argue it is a necessary step to address immediate staffing shortages.