Trump Signs Order to Pay TSA Workers Amid Shutdown Impasse

Fri Mar 27 2026 07:53:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In an effort to mitigate chaos at airports due to a government shutdown, President Trump announced he would sign an order to pay TSA workers. Congress remains locked in negotiations as travel delays worsen.

President Trump is taking decisive action to ensure TSA workers are paid during a prolonged government shutdown that has caused significant delays and hardships at airports. While negotiations in Congress continue, there are concerns about the impact on travel and security operations. Senators face pressure to find a resolution as many TSA agents have either stopped showing up for work or resigned. The current situation puts a strained spotlight on immigration enforcement and funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

WASHINGTON (RTW) — President Donald Trump has announced a significant move to address mounting airport chaos amid an ongoing budget impasse, stating he will sign an order to ensure that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers receive their paychecks, which many are at risk of missing due to the protracted government shutdown.

Amid rising pressure to resolve the stalemate over funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which has now entered its 42nd day, Trump's decision aims to quickly restore order and address the financial struggles of TSA employees. We must end the chaos at the airports, Trump tweeted.

The White House initially explored declaring a national emergency to facilitate TSA payments, but opted for an alternative approach instead. According to a senior administration official, the funds for these payments will come from the tax bill passed into law last year.

As Congress continues its negotiations into the night, several senators are working on a funding package covering critical departments like FEMA and the Coast Guard. However, Democrats have insisted on measures that place restrictions on immigration enforcement actions carried out by DHS, a demand still unresolved.

Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) supported Trump’s decision, stating it's crucial for TSA workers to receive their pay promptly. Yet, the situation remains dire, with many airports reporting over 40% of TSA employees absent from work, resulting in significant delays for passengers.

Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, expressed relief that TSA staff would be compensated but urged Congress to keep working towards a comprehensive solution that guarantees funding for DHS and its workforce.

With the situation growing increasingly critical, many passengers find themselves stranded. At Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport, traveler Melissa Gates faced a lengthy wait of over two hours without progressing through security, ultimately missing her flight. Five hours would have been more amusing than this, she lamented, exemplifying the growing frustration among travelers.

A ‘Last and Final’ Offer on the Table

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) has put forth what he termed a last and final offer to the Democrats as negotiations seem to stall. With frustration palpable, the urgency for a resolution is becoming increasingly dire.

The Democrats demand more substantial protections for individuals affected by the rigorous immigration enforcement strategies currently being employed, highlighting the need for policies that prioritize community safety along with effective national security.

If bipartisan negotiations do not yield results soon, Trump hinted at drastic actions, including the possible deployment of the National Guard to assist in maintaining security at airports.

This week’s developments showcase a critical moment in the ongoing funding battle, with immigration policies at the forefront and time running out.