Chicago – March 21, 2026
President Donald Trump warned he will deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to U.S. airports starting Monday unless Democrats agree to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as a partial government shutdown enters its fifth week.
In Truth Social posts on March 21, 2026, Trump stated, “I look forward to moving ICE in on Monday… GET READY. NO MORE WAITING!” He claimed ICE would provide “security like no one has ever seen before,” including arrests of undocumented immigrants, emphasizing those from Somalia.
The impasse stems from Democratic demands for ICE reforms following deadly enforcement incidents, like shootings in Minneapolis, blocking a Senate funding bill. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, unpaid since last weekend, face rising absences—over 50% at Houston’s airport—causing hours-long lines at major hubs like Atlanta and New Orleans during spring break.
Critics question ICE’s suitability for screening duties, while Senate talks intensify with White House border czar Tom Homan. Without resolution by March 27, disruptions could worsen as Congress eyes a recess.
