White House border czar Tom Homan criticized Congress for its inaction on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding, as the partial government shutdown stretched into its sixth week. Homan highlighted the financial strain on TSA officers and other DHS personnel, who have gone without pay while lawmakers remain on recess.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Homan told CNN and CBS News that TSA officers are struggling to pay rent and feed their families, while Congress remains deadlocked over DHS funding. He announced a plan to pay TSA agents by Tuesday, though other DHS employees, including Coast Guard and Secret Service personnel, would still lack pay. Homan also argued that the shutdown is not primarily about policy differences but rather execution, as immigration enforcement policies have remained consistent across administrations.
Deeper Dive & Context
Congressional Deadlock
The House and Senate remain at odds over DHS funding, with Republicans passing a rival plan that the Senate rejected. Democrats, except for Sen. John Fetterman, have largely opposed reopening DHS without addressing immigration enforcement concerns. Homan suggested the shutdown is more about execution than policy, citing similar enforcement strategies under previous administrations.
Impact on DHS Personnel
Homan emphasized that paying TSA agents does not resolve the broader issue of unpaid DHS employees. He noted that the Coast Guard, Secret Service, and other agencies are also affected. The White House has deployed ICE agents to airports to mitigate TSA staffing shortages, but Homan stressed the need for full DHS funding.
Political Perspectives
Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) argued that the shutdown is driven by public concern over ICE’s actions, including the deaths of two American citizens. He criticized the Republican House for rejecting a bipartisan Senate bill to fund DHS while addressing ICE’s role. Homan, however, maintained that the shutdown is prolonging due to execution issues rather than policy disagreements.
Long-Term Implications
The shutdown, now nearing a record length, has disrupted airport operations and raised concerns about national security. Homan warned of increased threats due to the funding lapse, urging Congress to act swiftly. The White House has not compelled lawmakers to return early, leaving the resolution uncertain until mid-April.