Lindsey Graham eats breakfast at Disney World as government shutdown drags into 44th day

ORLANDO, FLORIDA: As the partial government shutdown continues to disrupt travel and create long queues at airports across the country, Sen. Lindsey Graham was seen spending time at Walt Disney World in Orlando. On Sunday, March 29, he reportedly dined and appeared to enjoy himself.

Meanwhile, the ongoing partial shutdown has now stretched to 44 days, making it the longest funding lapse in US history, with lawmakers in Washington still locked in a dispute over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and a shortage of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staff.

Lindsey Graham seen at Disney World amid shutdown

Graham visited Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort for breakfast, a spot known for its buffet and lively atmosphere where Disney characters interact with guests at their tables. According to TMZ, he spoke with staff and was placed at a more private table. He later joined the buffet line and picked up food himself, appearing relaxed while having his meal.

Witnesses told the publication he seemed to be in a cheerful mood. He was also seen talking and spending time with a woman and a child, which added to the easygoing, vacation-like setting.

Graham later clarified the reason for his trip. He said he attended a meeting in South Florida with Steve Witkoff, a Trump official, to discuss potential talks involving Saudi Arabia and Israel. After that, he traveled to Orlando to meet friends before heading back to South Carolina.

Responding to criticism, he stated that he has voted several times in favor of fully funding the government and suggested that questions be directed to Democratic lawmakers.

Meanwhile, another political moment caught attention online. Bernie Sanders was seen flying first class from Washington to attend a rally, which sparked debate on social media, especially as ongoing TSA disruptions continue to impact travelers.

Government shutdown stretches to 44 days amid DHS funding standoff

The government shutdown has now stretched to 44 days, officially becoming the longest funding lapse in recent history. This surpasses the previous record, which ended in November 2025.

The prolonged shutdown has caused growing disruption, especially at airports. A shortage of TSA officers, many of whom are working without pay, has led to longer lines and delays at security checkpoints.

White House border czar Tom Homan said on Sunday that TSA employees could begin receiving payments early next week. This comes after President Donald Trump signed an order aimed at unlocking funds to provide some financial relief.

Despite this, there is still no clear resolution in sight. Republicans and Democrats remain at odds over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees TSA, immigration services, and emergency response agencies.

Adding to the uncertainty, Congress is currently on a two-week break and left Washington without reaching a deal. On Friday, March 27, lawmakers once again failed to agree on a plan to reopen the DHS, which has been shut down since February 14.