Government Shutdown Looms, Threatening Airport Security

DHS, including TSA, to shut down as Congress debates immigration enforcement reforms

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Department of Homeland Security, which includes the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), is set to shut down on Saturday, February 14th as Congress fails to reach a deal on funding the agency. This could lead to delays and disruptions at airport security checkpoints nationwide, including at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Why it matters

The DHS shutdown comes less than two weeks after a previous partial government shutdown, raising concerns about the impact on air travel and airport security. Negotiations between Democrats and Republicans over immigration enforcement reforms, including the use of force by ICE agents, have stalled and prevented a long-term funding agreement for DHS.

The details

During the shutdown, TSA officers who are considered essential will continue to work, but travelers should expect longer wait times at security checkpoints as some officers may not report to work. While Sky Harbor has mostly maintained normal operations during past shutdowns, wait times have occasionally exceeded 20 minutes. The length of the shutdown will depend on whether Congress can pass a bill to fund DHS through the rest of the year.

  • The DHS shutdown is set to begin on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • The previous partial government shutdown lasted for four days earlier this month.

The players

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that oversees airport security through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A federal law enforcement agency under DHS that has faced calls for reform from Democrats in Congress.

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Majority Leader who has called for reforms to ICE, including an end to "roving patrols" and stricter use-of-force standards.

John Fetterman

A Democratic senator who supports allowing ICE agents to continue wearing masks due to the threat of doxing.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

A major airport in Arizona that could experience security delays and disruptions due to the DHS shutdown.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.