Homeland Security Suspends TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Programs

Shutdown leads to suspension of airport security fast-pass programs

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs as a partial government shutdown continues. The programs are designed to help speed registered travelers through security lines, but Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the agency is now prioritizing the general traveling population at airports and ports of entry.

Why it matters

The suspension of these programs could cause significant delays and inconvenience for frequent flyers who rely on the expedited security screening. It highlights the real-world impacts of the ongoing government shutdown, which has been driven by a standoff between Democrats and the White House over immigration policy.

The details

The partial government shutdown began on February 14 after Democrats and the White House were unable to reach a deal on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats have been demanding changes to immigration operations that are core to President Donald Trump's deportation campaign. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the agency is now prioritizing the general traveling public over 'courtesy and special privilege escorts' provided by the PreCheck and Global Entry programs.

  • The partial government shutdown began on February 14, 2026.
  • The suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs was announced on February 21, 2026.

The players

Kristi Noem

The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency responsible for airport security and immigration enforcement.

Democrats

The political party that has been demanding changes to immigration operations as part of the government funding negotiations.

President Donald Trump

The President of the United States, whose deportation campaign is at the center of the funding dispute.

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What they’re saying

“Shutdowns have serious real world consequences.”

— Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security (ksgf.com)

“The administration is kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure, ruining your travel on purpose.”

— House Committee on Homeland Security Democrats (ksgf.com)

What’s next

The suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs will likely remain in effect until the partial government shutdown is resolved and the Department of Homeland Security receives full funding.

The takeaway

This suspension of expedited airport security programs underscores the real-world impacts of the ongoing political stalemate in Washington. Frequent flyers will face longer security lines and delays, highlighting how government shutdowns can disrupt the daily lives of citizens.