Trump Orders Immediate Pay for TSA Workers Amid Shutdown

Mar 28, 2026, 2:17 AM

Hover over text to view sources

President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he would sign an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to pay Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees immediately. This move comes as Congress continues to grapple with a funding impasse that has left many TSA workers without paychecks.

The executive order was a response to the mounting pressure from the ongoing government shutdown, which has now extended for several weeks. TSA employees have missed two full paychecks since funding for the DHS lapsed, leading to significant staffing shortages and delays at airports across the country.

Trump's order instructs the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to utilize funds connected to TSA operations to compensate the employees. The specifics of how this will be implemented remain unclear, but TSA workers may start receiving their pay as soon as Monday.

The Context of the Shutdown

Approximately 61,000 TSA employees have been affected by the funding lapse, resulting in a high rate of absenteeism and resignations among security personnel. Reports indicate a callout rate exceeding 40% at several major airports, which has contributed to severe delays for travelers. In a recent statement, acting TSA administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill highlighted the financial difficulties faced by TSA employees, noting that they have collectively lost over $1 billion in pay due to the shutdown.

The executive action comes amidst a chaotic atmosphere in Congress, where negotiations have stalled over funding for the DHS. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the Senate's funding measure as inadequate and pledged to propose a short-term funding bill that would address the TSA funding issue directly.

Funding Sources and Legal Concerns

Questions have arisen regarding the legality of Trump's plan. The executive order suggests using funds from the "One Big Beautiful Bill" Act, a legislative package signed by Trump last summer, which does not explicitly mention TSA funding. Critics argue that this maneuver may not be lawful, although past administrations have used similar tactics during shutdowns.

Senator Susan Collins has pointed out that alternative funding sources exist that can be utilized without declaring a national emergency, a route that could invite legal challenges. The potential for legal disputes emphasizes the contentious nature of the current political climate surrounding the shutdown.

Immediate Relief for TSA Employees

While TSA employees may receive back pay soon, the long-term implications of this shutdown remain uncertain. Union leaders have indicated that staffing levels are unlikely to return to normal until employees receive their overdue compensation. The financial strain on TSA workers, many of whom are struggling to meet basic living expenses, highlights the urgent need for resolution in Congress.

As the stalemate continues, both the Senate and House face increasing pressure to reach a compromise before scheduled recesses for Easter and Passover. With lawmakers racing against the clock, the situation remains fluid, and the future of TSA funding hangs in the balance.

In conclusion, President Trump's order represents a significant attempt to alleviate some immediate hardships for TSA workers during this prolonged government shutdown. However, the underlying issues related to funding and employee welfare remain unresolved, posing ongoing challenges for both the administration and Congress.

GOP Loss in Trump's Mar-a-Lago District Signals Trouble Ahead

Democrat Emily Gregory's surprising victory in a special election for a Florida House seat that includes Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate raises concerns for the GOP ahead of the midterm elections. This upset highlights a broader trend of Democratic overperformance in various elections, indicating potential challenges for Republicans as they prepare for November.

Black Troops and the Legacy of White Violence in the Postbellum South

A recent study examines the impact of Black military occupation on patterns of white supremacist violence in the post-Civil War South. It reveals that counties previously occupied by Black troops experienced significantly higher rates of lynching and racial violence following the withdrawal of federal forces, highlighting the long-term consequences of military interventions.

Trump Housing Official Targets AG Letitia James with New Referrals

Bill Pulte, a top housing official under President Trump, has issued new criminal referrals against New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleging mortgage fraud. James's attorney has condemned the actions as politically motivated, following previous unsuccessful attempts to charge her.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Debate Postponed Due to Candidate's Illness

The Wisconsin Supreme Court debate originally set for March 25 has been postponed after candidate Chris Taylor fell ill with kidney stones. The event is now rescheduled for April 2, just days before the election on April 7.

Justice Department Settles Michael Flynn Lawsuit for $1.2 Million

The Justice Department has settled a lawsuit with former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn for approximately $1.2 million. The settlement resolves Flynn's claims of malicious prosecution related to his lying to the FBI about conversations with a Russian diplomat.