Trusted Traveler Programs Quickly Restored After Brief Suspension

DHS reverses decision to suspend PreCheck and Global Entry programs within hours amid government shutdown

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on Sunday, February 22, 2026 that it was suspending the federal Trusted Traveler programs, including PreCheck and Global Entry, due to staffing issues caused by the ongoing government shutdown. However, the suspensions were quickly reversed just a few hours later as there appeared to be confusion between DHS decision-makers and communications staff.

Why it matters

The Trusted Traveler programs are heavily used by frequent international travelers, especially those flying out of New York's major airports. The brief suspension caused disruption and frustration for many travelers, highlighting the impact that partisan gridlock in Washington can have on everyday Americans.

The details

The Trusted Traveler program suspensions were originally announced to take effect at 6 am on Sunday, February 22nd, with DHS citing the need to "refocus department personnel on the majority of travelers." However, by 10 am the same day, DHS had reversed course and reinstated the programs. In an apparent retaliatory move, the TSA also announced it would no longer provide additional security screenings for members of Congress, a longstanding perk.

  • The Trusted Traveler program suspensions were announced to take effect at 6 am on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
  • The suspensions were reversed by 10 am on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

The players

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency responsible for the Trusted Traveler programs, including PreCheck and Global Entry.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency that administers airport security screenings, including the PreCheck program.

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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)

The takeaway

The brief suspension and quick reversal of the Trusted Traveler programs highlights the disruption that can be caused by political gridlock in Washington, even for routine government services that millions of Americans rely on. It underscores the need for greater cooperation and compromise among lawmakers to ensure the smooth functioning of critical travel infrastructure.