Trump “We Put ICE in Charge of Airports” Amid TSA Shortages

President Donald Trump said the administration has moved Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents into airports to help manage security operations as staffing shortages strain the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Trump stated, “we put ICE in charge of airports,” pointing to long lines and reduced staffing caused by the ongoing Department of Homeland Security funding standoff. Officials say ICE agents are being deployed to assist with tasks such as guarding exits and checking IDs, allowing trained TSA officers to focus on specialized screening duties. The move comes after weeks of staffing disruptions and growing delays at major U.S. airports. Supporters argue the decision shows the administration using every available resource to keep airports operating safely during the crisis. Critics, however, have questioned whether immigration agents should be involved in airport security operations while the funding dispute continues in Washington.