Full Breakdown
Calls for Reinstatement of Global Entry Amid DHS Shutdown
2/25/2026, 5:15:27 AM
Suspension of Global Entry Program
The Global Entry program, which allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers expedited customs and immigration clearance, was suspended by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on February 22, 2026, due to a partial government shutdown. This shutdown resulted from a failure by Congress to reach an agreement on funding, particularly concerning immigration enforcement policies. The suspension has drawn significant criticism from travel industry groups and lawmakers who argue that it exacerbates security risks and increases wait times at airports.
Impact on Travelers and Security
The U.S. Travel Association has voiced strong opposition to the suspension, stating that it contradicts the DHS's intent to maintain security and efficiency. The association highlighted that Global Entry is primarily funded by a $120 fee paid by its members, making the decision to suspend it "illogical." Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) noted that in 2025, over 18 million travelers utilized Global Entry, saving more than 300,000 officer hours at 79 ports of entry. He criticized the administration for what he termed a political stunt that inflicts unnecessary pain on American travelers.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the suspension, the DHS indicated that the decision was made to "preserve limited funds and personnel." However, the agency reversed its initial plan to suspend the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) PreCheck program after public outcry. The U.S. Travel Association emphasized that suspending Global Entry not only slows down processing times but also strips away a critical layer of security infrastructure. Senator Warner and other lawmakers have urged the Trump administration to focus on practical solutions rather than using the situation as leverage in political negotiations.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), have accused the Trump administration of using the suspension of Global Entry as a means to exert pressure during funding negotiations. Schumer stated that the administration's actions are a form of abuse, particularly given that the Global Entry program remained operational during the previous 43-day government shutdown. Travel industry representatives have expressed concern that the abrupt suspension was poorly communicated, leaving travelers unprepared during a peak travel season.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the DHS has confirmed the suspension of Global Entry, there are conflicting reports regarding the operational status of TSA PreCheck. Initially, there were indications that PreCheck would also be suspended, but this was later reversed. The ongoing political stalemate over DHS funding continues to create uncertainty for travelers and industry stakeholders.
Verbatim Quotes
“Suspending this critical security program does the opposite of what the Department of Homeland Security intends, adding volume to standard lines, stretching the very personnel the department is trying to protect and increasing security risks,” — U.S. Travel Association
“The administration should focus on real solutions, not inflict pain on American travelers as a political stunt.” — Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.)
“Global Entry is far more than a convenience; it is on the front line of national security,” — U.S. Travel Association
“it’s past time for Congress to get to the table and get a deal done.” — Airlines for America
“It feels like Washington is using travelers as a pawn to try to, I guess, persuade the other side to do what they want,” — Blair Perkins, traveler
What's Next
As the partial government shutdown continues, pressure is mounting on the Trump administration to reinstate the Global Entry program. Lawmakers from both parties are advocating for a resolution to the funding impasse, emphasizing the need for a functional and secure travel infrastructure.
