Trump says he could send National Guard to airports ‘for more help’

President Donald Trump said he was considering sending the National Guard to U.S. airports, two days after the administration sent Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to several major U.S. airports following hours-long waits for travelers due to a partial government shutdown.

In a post on Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump blamed Democrats for the shutdown that began on February 14..

“Thank you to our amazing ICE Patriots for their help. It makes a big difference.” He wrote this in his article:. “I may call in the National Guard for further assistance.”

The Department of Homeland Security said Wednesday that more than 11 percent of TSA officers were on call and more than 450 had resigned since the shutdown began.

Increased absences from Transportation Security Administration officials who were required to work despite not being paid during the shutdown have contributed to long lines at major U.S. airports, including Atlanta, Houston and New York.

DHS, which oversees both ICE and TSA, said ICE agents “will support airports facing the greatest challenges,” but the department did not respond to requests for comment on what ICE agents’ duties are. ICE agents are getting paid during the shutdown.

Airlines are warning customers about potentially long security lines, while executives are increasingly frustrated with lawmakers over the impasse. on tuesday Delta Airlines He said DHS has suspended airport escorts and other special services for members of Congress and their staff due to the partial shutdown.

The shutdown comes as Democrats in Congress demand changes to how federal immigration enforcement operates in exchange for the release of DHS funding following the shooting deaths of two U.S. citizens by ICE officers in Minneapolis.