Trump Administration Suspends TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

The move is being blamed on the ongoing government shutdown, but experts say it will only make travel more difficult for all passengers.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 11:06am

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The Trump administration has suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs, effective immediately, citing the need to prioritize screening for the general traveling public during the partial government shutdown. However, experts argue that this decision will actually make the screening process less efficient, as the PreCheck and Global Entry programs require less staffing to operate.

Why it matters

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are designed to expedite the security and immigration screening process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. By suspending these programs, the administration is removing a system that helps streamline travel for millions of passengers, which could lead to longer lines and delays at airports and ports of entry.

The details

The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry is being blamed on the ongoing partial government shutdown, with the Department of Homeland Security claiming that fewer workers will show up during a shutdown. However, critics argue that keeping the expedited screening programs open would actually help alleviate the burden on TSA and Customs and Border Protection agents, as PreCheck and Global Entry passengers require less intensive screening.

  • The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry went into effect at 6AM ET on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, who announced the suspension of the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs.

House Committee on Homeland Security

A congressional committee that has criticized the Trump administration's decision, accusing it of "kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure."

Ben Schlappig

The founder of the travel blog One Mile at a Time, who wrote the original article criticizing the administration's decision.

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What they’re saying

“Shutdowns have serious real world consequences, and TSA and CBP are prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts.”

— Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security

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

— House Committee on Homeland Security

What’s next

It remains to be seen whether the suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry will be reversed in the coming days or weeks, as the partial government shutdown continues.

The takeaway

The Trump administration's decision to suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs during the government shutdown appears to be counterproductive, as it will likely lead to longer wait times and more inefficient screening processes for all travelers, rather than prioritizing the general public as claimed.