Full Breakdown
Disruption of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Amid Government Shutdown
2/26/2026, 12:08:05 PM
Overview of the Situation
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on February 22, 2026, that it would suspend the Global Entry program due to a partial government shutdown that began on February 14. Initially, the DHS also indicated that the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program would be halted, but this decision was reversed just hours later. The shutdown stems from a deadlock between Democrats and the White House over immigration enforcement policies, which are central to President Donald Trump’s deportation agenda.
Key Developments
The DHS's initial announcement to suspend both programs was met with immediate backlash from travelers and industry groups. Global Entry, which allows pre-approved travelers to expedite customs processing, was officially suspended at all participating airports starting at 6 a.m. on February 22. However, TSA PreCheck, which facilitates quicker airport security screening, remained operational after the DHS reversed its earlier decision.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the agency was making "tough but necessary workforce and resource decisions," emphasizing that the shutdown has "serious real-world consequences." The suspension of Global Entry was described as an emergency measure to preserve limited funds and personnel amid the ongoing funding lapse.
Impact on Travelers
Travelers faced significant confusion and frustration as they navigated the changes. Reports indicated that wait times at customs increased dramatically, with some travelers experiencing delays of up to 30 minutes instead of the usual five minutes with Global Entry. Blair Perkins, a traveler returning from Cancun, expressed her frustration, stating, “It feels like Washington is using travelers as a pawn to try to persuade the other side to do what they want.”
Despite the turmoil, airport lines remained largely unaffected through midday on February 22, with security wait times reported as under 15 minutes at most international airports. However, the looming winter storm exacerbated travel disruptions, leading to thousands of flight cancellations across the Northeast.
Official Statements & Responses
The U.S. Travel Association welcomed the decision to keep TSA PreCheck operational, with CEO Geoff Freeman stating, “We are glad that DHS has decided to keep PreCheck operational and avoid a crisis of its own making.” Conversely, Airlines for America criticized the DHS for the abrupt announcement, highlighting that it provided travelers with little time to adjust their plans.
Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Andy Kim, accused the administration of using the shutdown as a political tool, asserting that it intentionally complicates travel for the American public. Kim remarked, “This administration is trying to weaponize our government, trying to make things intentionally more difficult for the American people as political leverage.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While TSA PreCheck was confirmed to remain operational, Global Entry's status remained unclear, with reports indicating it would likely stay suspended until funding for DHS is restored. The DHS did not provide a timeline for when Global Entry might resume operations, leaving travelers uncertain about future travel plans.
Conclusion
The suspension of the Global Entry program amid the ongoing government shutdown has raised concerns about the efficiency of airport operations and the impact on travelers. As the situation develops, both travelers and industry stakeholders are urging Congress to reach a funding agreement to restore normal operations and prevent further disruptions.
