Sen. Cornyn's Burger Delivery to TSA Workers Hijacked by Rep. Casar

Progressive Democrat confronts Republican senator over TSA funding lapse

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:21pm

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Sen. John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, visited the Austin airport on Monday to deliver burgers to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers. However, his gesture was interrupted by Rep. Greg Casar, a progressive Democrat also from Texas, who criticized Republicans for the ongoing funding lapse at the TSA.

Why it matters

The confrontation between the two Texas lawmakers highlights the partisan divide over funding for federal agencies like the TSA, which is responsible for airport security. The dispute also underscores the challenges facing federal workers affected by budget impasses in Congress.

The details

During the encounter, Cornyn scolded Casar, saying "Why don't you tell your Democrats to vote to pay these poor people?" Casar responded by suggesting a bipartisan bill to fund just the TSA, but Cornyn rejected that idea, emphasizing the importance of TSA workers in keeping the country safe from terrorist attacks.

  • Sen. Cornyn visited the Austin airport on Monday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Sen. John Cornyn

A Republican senator from Texas.

Rep. Greg Casar

A Democratic representative from Texas who chairs the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for airport security in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“Why don't you tell your Democrats to vote to pay these poor people?”

— Sen. John Cornyn

“Let's do it ... There's a bipartisan bill that funds just the TSA.”

— Rep. Greg Casar

The takeaway

The confrontation between Cornyn and Casar highlights the ongoing partisan divide over federal funding, which has real consequences for government workers like TSA employees. The dispute underscores the need for bipartisan cooperation to ensure essential services are maintained, even in the face of political disagreements.