The partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown entered its 24th day on March 8, 2026, causing hours-long TSA security lines at airports across the country just as spring break travel surged.
Houston Hobby Airport reported 3.5-hour average TSA wait times. New Orleans Airport advised passengers to arrive 3+ hours before flights. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry have been suspended since February 22. TSA workers are working without pay for the third time in six months and will miss their first full paycheck on March 14.
The shutdown began on February 14 over disputes about immigration enforcement reform, triggered in part by the killings of two US citizens — Renee Good and Alex Pretti — by federal agents. Congress has been unable to reach agreement while the administration refuses to accept reforms.
The same administration that launched a war with Iran while its own Department of Homeland Security is shut down is asking Americans to trust it with national security. TSA agents protecting airports from threats are working without pay while the Pentagon spends $2 million on king crab.