Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents deployed to assist at airport security checkpoints are being asked not to wear masks while performing those duties, President Donald Trump said Monday, as staffing shortages continue to disrupt Transportation Security Administration operations during the Department of Homeland Security funding lapse.
ICE personnel began assisting at select major airports following a surge in TSA absences and reported resignations since the shutdown began. The move is intended to alleviate long security lines and maintain airport throughput as remaining TSA staff continue working under strained conditions.
In a public statement, Trump said he supports the use of masks by ICE agents during enforcement operations involving potentially dangerous individuals, but requested that agents forgo face coverings while assisting travelers at airports. He framed the distinction as appropriate for a public-facing role where visibility and reassurance are factors.
The use of masks by federal agents has become a point of disagreement in ongoing negotiations over DHS funding. Some lawmakers have pushed for limits on the practice, while others argue that masks provide necessary protection against identification, harassment, or retaliation—particularly during high-profile enforcement actions.
Former acting ICE Director Jonathan Fahey noted that the risk environment at airports differs from traditional enforcement settings, suggesting that agents assisting with passenger processing are less likely to face targeted threats.
He also emphasized that the use of face coverings is not unique to immigration enforcement and is common in other federal operations involving sensitive or high-risk investigations.
The deployment comes amid mounting operational strain. Reports indicate that hundreds of TSA employees have left their positions during the shutdown, while others continue working without pay. Major airports have responded by urging passengers to arrive significantly earlier than usual to account for delays.
The decision to involve ICE in airport operations has drawn criticism from some Democratic lawmakers, who argue it could complicate security procedures and increase confusion for travelers. Others maintain that additional personnel are necessary to stabilize operations until a funding agreement is reached.
Negotiations over DHS funding remain unresolved, with both sides continuing to exchange proposals.
