Story perspectives

Government Shutdown Drags On, TSA Workers Go Unpaid

2/20/2026

Center

Government Shutdown Stalls

The partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security continues as negotiations stall.
The shutdown is expected to last until Congress reconvenes on February 23.
Essential Department of Homeland Security employees, including the Coast Guard and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), are working without pay.
Lawmakers are divided over immigration enforcement reforms after federal agents fatally shot two U.S. citizens.
The White House insists on maintaining current immigration enforcement practices.

Right

Coast Guard Funding Delayed

Republican lawmakers say Democrats are delaying Coast Guard funding amid Department of Homeland Security negotiations, risking the livelihoods of Coast Guard families.
Coast Guard families are already struggling after a previous government shutdown.
Rep. Mark Begich emphasized the Coast Guard's critical role in national security, particularly against foreign threats.
Democratic leaders, including Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, acknowledge the issue and advocate reallocating funds to ensure Coast Guard members are paid.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting from October 1 to 17, stemmed from a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act, resulting in approximately 800,000 federal employees being furloughed. This event highlighted ongoing political gridlock, a trend that continues today as lawmakers debate immigration funding, echoing past conflicts and emphasizing the significant impact of budgetary disputes on national security and employee welfare.

1 of 3

Government Shutdown Stalls

The partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security continues as negotiations stall.
The shutdown is expected to last until Congress reconvenes on February 23.
Essential Department of Homeland Security employees, including the Coast Guard and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), are working without pay.
Lawmakers are divided over immigration enforcement reforms after federal agents fatally shot two U.S. citizens.
The White House insists on maintaining current immigration enforcement practices.

1 / 3