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WASHINGTON – A partial shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) began early Saturday, February 14, 2026, after Congress failed to reach a funding agreement. The shutdown raises concerns about potential disruptions to travel, including possible airport delays, as lawmakers remain at odds over immigration enforcement policies. The lapse in funding occurred at 12:01 a.m. EST, impacting several key agencies within DHS.
The core of the dispute centers on disagreements between the White House and Democratic leaders regarding changes to U.S. Immigration enforcement. The conflict was intensified following the deaths of two American citizens in Minnesota last month during incidents involving federal agents, prompting calls for reform. While negotiations continue, Congress adjourned on Thursday without a resolution, leaving the DHS without operational funding.
Even though the DHS is officially shut down, the impact won’t be uniform across all agencies. Essential employees, deemed critical to national security, are expected to continue working without pay until a funding agreement is reached. This includes personnel at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Coast Guard. However, their paychecks will be delayed until the shutdown ends.
Potential Travel Disruptions Loom
Travel groups, including Airlines for America, have voiced concerns about the potential for disruptions at airports. In a joint statement, they warned that a lack of funding could lead to unscheduled absences among TSA workers, resulting in longer wait times and flight delays. “Travellers and the US economy cannot afford to have essential TSA personnel working without pay,” the statement read. The possibility of increased wait times at security checkpoints is a significant concern for travelers, particularly during peak travel periods.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are expected to be less affected by the shutdown, as they have access to approximately $75 billion in funding approved last year through President Donald Trump’s “big, lovely bill.” This existing funding allows these agencies to continue operations and compensate employees, despite the broader DHS shutdown.
Political Impasse and Democratic Demands
The shutdown comes as Democrats push for reforms within the DHS, particularly regarding ICE. These demands stem from the January deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis, who were killed during protests against federal immigration raids. Democrats are seeking a number of changes, including a ban on immigration agents wearing face masks, improved officer identification, and stricter warrant requirements. On Thursday, Senate Democrats blocked two funding bills, citing the lack of these immigration reforms.
President Trump, however, has remained firm in his stance, stating that Democrats have “gone crazy” and signaling a reluctance to concede to their demands. He also vowed to implement national voter identification requirements for the upcoming November midterm elections, regardless of congressional approval, a move that raises questions about the scope of presidential authority over election administration.
Gateway Project Funding Partially Unfrozen
Amidst the shutdown, the Trump administration has taken a separate action, partially unfreezing funding for the Gateway project, a crucial rail tunnel connecting New York and New Jersey. This decision follows a court ruling earlier in the week that mandated the release of federal funds earmarked for the $16 billion project, citing the potential for “immediate and severe impact” from continued delays. The administration had previously sought to pause the release of funds, but an appeals court declined to intervene.
Congress is currently scheduled to return on February 23, but lawmakers could reconvene sooner if a funding agreement is reached. The duration of the shutdown remains uncertain, with the possibility of it lasting at least 10 days. The situation is fluid, and ongoing negotiations will determine the timeline for resolving the impasse and restoring full funding to the Department of Homeland Security.
The coming days will be critical as both sides attempt to bridge the gap on immigration policy. The impact on travelers and the broader economy will depend on the length of the shutdown and the ability of lawmakers to reach a compromise. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates as this story develops.
Have your travel plans been affected by the DHS shutdown? Share your experiences in the comments below.
