Original Source
US Airports Face Long Lines Despite ICE Agent Deployment, Trump Hints at National Guard
ICE Agents Deployed Amidst Airport Chaos
Following orders from President Donald Trump, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents have been deployed to airports across the United States. This measure aims to shorten security checkpoint lines, with agents currently operating in at least 14 airports. Dressed in vests marked 'Police ICE', these agents provide a police presence and security. However, the union representing TSA (Transportation Security Administration) officers argues that this intervention is not effectively speeding up the lines.
Soaring Wait Times and TSA Absentees
Long queues persist at airports, with some locations experiencing significant delays. Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport, for instance, reported wait times as long as 270 minutes (4 hours and 30 minutes), highlighting the severe disruption. This is largely attributed to high absentee rates among TSA employees. On Sunday, record call-out rates were seen at Atlanta (41.5%), Baltimore (38.1%), Houston Intercontinental (39.1%), and New York JFK (37.4%). TSA officers are currently on their 39th day without a full paycheck, with an average starting salary of just $35,000. President Trump is now considering deploying the National Guard to assist, and airports are advising passengers to travel during off-peak hours.
*Source: YouTube: ABC News (2026-03-24)*
