Rep. Garamendi Discusses DHS and TSA Funding Issues
During Wednesday’s broadcast of CNN News Central, Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) commented on the potential resolution of the Department of Homeland Security shutdown, suggesting that the TSA could receive funding if the Republicans and the president were to acquiesce to Democratic demands.
Co-host John Berman inquired about Garamendi’s thoughts on President Trump’s assertions that Democrats were at fault for the airport issues. He asked, “What responsibility do you think Democrats have in securing TSA funding?”
Garamendi pointed to recent events in Minneapolis, highlighting the actions of ICE and Customs and Border Protection. He explained, “What we wanted—and still want—is reform for ICE and Customs and Border Protection. We are calling for better training, accountability, and for officers to wear identifiable gear, including body cameras. We have twelve specific reforms in mind. Yet somehow, the president and the Republican Party are unwilling to back these necessary changes for what is essentially America’s largest police force. We just want them to operate at the same standards as other police forces across the country. This lack of commitment is what is holding things up. If they simply acknowledged that this police force needs appropriate training and equipment, funding for the TSA could be resolved immediately.”
Berman followed up, noting that wait times at airports had exceeded an hour, with the TSA administrator indicating potential airport closures if the situation persists. He asked Garamendi what he would convey to the administrator.
Garamendi replied, “Well, the message is that Congress concludes its current session tomorrow, and 435 of us, along with senators, will be leaving, many of us via planes. We are directly affected by this issue. But the resolution can come quickly. President Trump, let’s initiate ICE reform; we need a competent and well-trained police presence. Preparation is key here. This situation will continue until Republicans and the president acknowledge the need for adequate training and management of our police forces.”
