The White House has rejected Elon Musk’s offer to pay Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers’ salaries during the ongoing partial government shutdown. Musk proposed the $250 million offer on X, citing the funding impasse’s impact on TSA personnel and airport operations. The White House cited legal challenges due to Musk’s federal government contracts and urged Democrats to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Core Facts and Reactions
Musk’s offer, announced on March 25, was met with public support from President Trump, who called it “great.” However, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson emphasized legal barriers and political solutions. The shutdown, now in its sixth week, has left TSA workers without pay since February 14, leading to staffing shortages and record-long security lines. Acting TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill reported 480 resignations and up to 50% callout rates at some airports.
Legal and Political Context
The White House noted that direct payments to federal employees by private individuals are prohibited under U.S. Office of Government Ethics rules. Officials considered alternative funding methods, such as donations to the U.S. Treasury’s “Gifts to the Government” account. Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt blamed Democrats for the shutdown, stating Republicans’ position was to fund DHS. Democrats opposed the GOP bill, seeking reforms to Trump’s immigration policies.
Impact on TSA and Travelers
The shutdown has caused unprecedented delays, with some passengers waiting over four hours for security. TSA workers missed their first full paycheck on March 13, and the agency faces nearly $1 billion in lost wages. The Trump administration deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to mitigate airport disruptions.