Story perspectives

Trump Deploys ICE to Airports Amid Ongoing DHS Shutdown

3/25/2026

Center

Trump Deploys ICE

U.S. President Donald Trump has deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to U.S. airports to relieve long security lines caused by the DHS shutdown.
Two U.S. citizens died during ICE operations, prompting Democrats to demand reforms in immigration enforcement tactics.
The shutdown has lasted over a month, with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) shortages and over 400 agents quitting, while DHS funding talks remain stalled.

Right

Senate Republicans Negotiate

Senate Republicans are nearing a deal to end the five-week DHS shutdown.
The framework would fund most DHS operations while excluding some ICE programs.
The plan follows discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump and addresses airport chaos from unpaid TSA workers.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Democrats must cooperate for the plan to succeed.
House conservatives remain skeptical about including the SAVE America Act in negotiations.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting 16 days, stemmed from budget disputes over the Affordable Care Act, resulting in 800,000 federal employees furloughed and significant economic losses. This shutdown echoes ongoing conflicts over immigration funding and operational stability, as seen in the recent Department of Homeland Security shutdown, highlighting persistent political divisions affecting U.S. governance and public services.

1 of 3

Trump Deploys ICE

U.S. President Donald Trump has deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to U.S. airports to relieve long security lines caused by the DHS shutdown.
Two U.S. citizens died during ICE operations, prompting Democrats to demand reforms in immigration enforcement tactics.
The shutdown has lasted over a month, with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) shortages and over 400 agents quitting, while DHS funding talks remain stalled.

1 / 3