Trump Considers National Guard Deployment Amid Airport Delays and DHS Shutdown
President Donald Trump is weighing the deployment of the National Guard to U.S. Airports as significant travel delays continue due to a partial government shutdown and staffing shortages at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This comes after the administration deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to several major airports to assist with the strain.
Shutdown Sparks Staffing Crisis and Travel Disruptions
The partial government shutdown, which began on February 14, 2026, has led to increased absences among TSA officers, with over 11% calling out on Wednesday and more than 450 having resigned since the shutdown started, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These absences have contributed to long security lines at major airports, including those in Atlanta, Houston, and New York.
ICE Agents Deployed, Duties Unspecified
In response to the growing congestion, the DHS deployed ICE agents to airports “facing the greatest strain.” However, the department has not specified the duties of these agents. ICE agents are continuing to receive pay during the shutdown.
Airline Response and Congressional Impact
Airlines are warning customers about potential delays, and executives are expressing frustration with lawmakers over the impasse. Delta Air Lines has suspended its airport escorts and other special services for members of Congress and their staff due to the ongoing shutdown.
Political Context: Immigration Enforcement Debate
The shutdown stems from a dispute over federal immigration enforcement policies. Democrats in Congress are demanding changes to how federal immigration enforcement operates following the deaths of two U.S. Citizens shot by ICE officers in Minneapolis, and are withholding funding for the DHS until these changes are addressed.
Previous National Guard Deployments and Legal Challenges
The consideration of National Guard deployment follows previous attempts by the Trump administration to utilize the National Guard in support of federal law enforcement. In December 2025, the Supreme Court rejected Trump’s effort to deploy National Guard troops in Illinois, finding no clear legal authority for such action. A federal judge in Portland also permanently barred the Trump administration from sending National Guard troops to that city in November 2025.
In June 2025, a presidential memorandum authorized the Department of Defense to provide security for DHS functions, citing incidents of violence and disorder in response to ICE enforcement activities. This authorization allowed for the potential call-up of National Guard members to protect ICE personnel and federal property.
Key Takeaways
- President Trump is considering deploying the National Guard to U.S. Airports amid a government shutdown and TSA staffing shortages.
- ICE agents have already been deployed to assist at affected airports, but their specific roles remain unclear.
- The shutdown is linked to a political dispute over immigration enforcement policies.
- Previous attempts by the Trump administration to deploy the National Guard have faced legal challenges.
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