Long Security Lines Persist at South Florida Airports Amid Shutdown

ICE agents deployed to help with TSA shortages, but concerns raised over their use

Mar. 23, 2026 at 11:21am

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Air travelers at airports across the U.S., including in South Florida, are facing long security lines as the partial government shutdown remains unresolved. Tens of thousands of TSA agents aren't getting paid, leading to many calling out or quitting. President Trump announced that ICE agents would be stationed at hotspot airports to help with the staffing shortages, but the TSA union has criticized the idea, saying TSA officers deserve to be paid, not replaced by untrained, armed agents.

Why it matters

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant disruptions at airports across the country, with long security lines frustrating travelers. The use of ICE agents to fill the TSA staffing gaps raises concerns about their qualifications and potential risks to public safety.

The details

Long lines greeted passengers at Miami International Airport early Monday morning, with some stretching a city block. Many travelers expressed frustration, including a woman named Brenda who said "Our ignorant government. There is a solution - they just have to agree to disagree." CBS News crews spotted ICE agents at MIA, but airport officials said they have not been contacted by ICE or the TSA about stationing the agents there. The TSA union has slammed the idea, saying "TSA officers deserve to be paid, not replaced by untrained, armed agents who have shown how dangerous they can be."

  • On Monday morning, long security lines were reported at Miami International Airport.

The players

Holly Schmidt

A traveler facing long lines at Miami International Airport.

Brenda

A traveler who criticized the government's handling of the shutdown.

TSA

The Transportation Security Administration, which is facing staffing shortages due to the government shutdown.

ICE

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which President Trump announced would be stationed at airports to help with TSA staffing gaps.

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What’s next

It remains to be seen if ICE agents will be deployed to South Florida airports and how effective they will be in addressing the TSA staffing shortages caused by the ongoing government shutdown.

The takeaway

The government shutdown is having a significant impact on air travel, with long security lines frustrating passengers. The proposed use of ICE agents to fill TSA staffing gaps raises concerns about their qualifications and potential risks, underscoring the need for a resolution to the political impasse.