Duffy Predicts 'Worse' Airport Wait Times, Pressuring Democrats

Transportation Secretary says TSA officers may quit or not show up without paychecks

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:33am

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Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that the partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security will lead to 'much worse' wait times at airports as TSA officers struggle without paychecks. Duffy said the next TSA paycheck should come on Friday, but more officers may quit or not show up to work if the shutdown isn't resolved by then. He added that the worsening situation at airports could put pressure on Democrats to work with President Trump on a resolution.

Why it matters

The ongoing government shutdown has already led to significant delays and long lines at major airports across the country, disrupting travel plans for many Americans. Duffy's comments suggest the situation could deteriorate further, potentially causing even greater frustration and economic impact if the standoff in Congress continues.

The details

Duffy said most TSA salaries start around $50,000, making it hard for officers to make ends meet without paychecks. He added that the pressure these workers face will only increase as the shutdown drags on. Duffy believes the worsening airport conditions will put pressure on Democrats to work with Trump on a solution, rather than risk continued pain for travelers.

  • The DHS shutdown began on February 14, 2026.
  • The next TSA paycheck is expected on Friday.

The players

Sean Duffy

The U.S. Transportation Secretary who warned about the impact of the government shutdown on airport operations.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who Duffy says cares about the economy, gas prices, and peace around the world.

Chuck Schumer

The Senate Minority Leader who proposed a last-ditch effort to fund the TSA that was voted down by Senate Republicans.

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What they’re saying

“So I do think it's going to get much worse, and as it gets worse, I think that puts pressure on the Congress to come to a resolution.”

— Sean Duffy, Transportation Secretary

“Democrats have to say, 'You know what? We're not going to defund this. We're going to actually work together, have some commonsense reform that the president will work with us on, and let's get America working again.'”

— Sean Duffy, Transportation Secretary

“And the last thing you want as you travel is to deal with political fights at the airport. Let that stay in Congress, but don't extract pain out of me and my family as I'm trying to just go to Florida and get some sun on my bones during spring break with my kids.”

— Sean Duffy, Transportation Secretary

What’s next

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The takeaway

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