Story perspectives

Trump Deploys ICE at Airports Amid Shutdown Backlash

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration deployed ICE agents to at least 14 airports, Phoenix and New York, during a partial government shutdown.
Critics including Rep. Greg Stanton and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego condemned the move as reckless and fear-instilling.
Democrats call for ICE reforms, including banning masks and requiring body cameras.
As the shutdown nears 60 days, calls grow to fund DHS without ICE, while Trump and Republicans resist.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting 16 days from October 1 to 17, stemmed from a standoff over the Affordable Care Act, leading to the furlough of approximately 800,000 federal employees. This conflict highlighted ongoing tensions between congressional Republicans and President Obama, echoing previous budgetary disputes and shaping future immigration and funding debates, particularly regarding the Department of Homeland Security's operations.

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Story summary

The U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration deployed ICE agents to at least 14 airports, Phoenix and New York, during a partial government shutdown.
Critics including Rep. Greg Stanton and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego condemned the move as reckless and fear-instilling.
Democrats call for ICE reforms, including banning masks and requiring body cameras.
As the shutdown nears 60 days, calls grow to fund DHS without ICE, while Trump and Republicans resist.

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