ICE Agents at LaGuardia Airport
On Thursday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were seen checking passenger IDs amid a lengthy security line at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.
A newspaper noted that two out of three ICE agents stationed at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint in Terminal B sported “Operation Forced Removal” patches, indicating their roles within the deportation force.
One surprised traveler exclaimed, “ICE is guarding us!” after finally making it through the two-hour wait.
This deployment came following President Trump’s announcement on Monday to send ICE agents to help overworked TSA screeners amidst overwhelming crowds. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been experiencing staff shortages due to a 40-day shutdown, with numerous employees opting not to work without pay, leading to significant delays.
Before ICE’s arrival, Border Patrol Commissioner Tom Homan mentioned that federal law enforcement officers wouldn’t perform tasks for which they aren’t trained, such as baggage screening. Instead, they would assist TSA agents by taking on simpler duties, like monitoring doors and hallways.
Reports indicate that ICE officers have been checking IDs at other major airports, including Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson and Phoenix Sky Harbor. However, their presence at JFK Airport drew complaints from passengers. One traveler, Kelly Michael, 54, expressed her discomfort, stating she arrived four hours early due to the “ridiculous” lines. She voiced concerns about their training for such roles, saying, “I don’t want them around me because they’re not trained for this job and they shouldn’t be doing it.”
A DHS spokesperson confirmed that ICE agents had completed a “standard TSA training curriculum” and were engaging in ID checks using TSA equipment and operational procedures. Lauren Biss, acting DHS assistant secretary, pointed out that with more help, TSA could focus on its specialized screening tasks and expedite airport security processes.
President Trump has indicated plans to sign an executive order ensuring TSA employees receive payment during the ongoing shutdown. He criticized Democrats, stating they had created a national crisis and promised to utilize his legal powers to protect the country. The order would instruct DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin to ensure TSA officers are compensated.
It’s worth noting TSA employees were set to miss their third paycheck on Friday. As for how long ICE will provide support at the airport, that’s currently uncertain. Secretary Mullin expressed hopes that the executive action would alleviate the chaos, thanking Trump for his initiative to address the ongoing issues at airports. He highlighted that many frontline DHS workers, including those from FEMA and the Coast Guard, remain unpaid due to the political standoff.
“Democrats must stop playing politics over national security, stop punishing employees, and restart DHS,” Mullin declared.
