DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has joined the chorus of criticism against Democrats in Congress for their role in the ongoing government shutdown, which she claims has led to thousands of federal workers, including those at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), working without pay. In a video prepared for prime-time broadcast at all U.S. airports on Thursday afternoon, Noem accused Democrats of refusing to fund the federal government, resulting in widespread operational disruptions. “Most of our TSA employees are working without pay,” she stated in the clip, which is also intended to reach travelers across the country. The video, which Noem described as “the most important message I have to give to the American public,” outlines the current state of government operations, with numerous federal agencies left in limbo due to the shutdown.
The government shutdown, which began on October 1st, remains unresolved as Congress continues to deadlock over funding legislation. TSA employees who are in the field or working at airports are currently not receiving their paychecks, with the situation likely to worsen as the shutdown extends. While backpay is guaranteed for those affected through the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019, the Department of Homeland Security has reportedly considered invoking the terms of the OMB plan to potentially revoke or delay these backpay payments as a way to force Democrats into compromise. Noem emphasized that the administration is seeking a resolution, stating, “Our hope is that Democrats will soon recognize the importance of opening the government.” Despite the ongoing stalemate, airport operations have not yet suffered significant delays, but officials warn that increasing numbers of employees calling in sick could lead to longer lines and more frustrations for travelers.
Meanwhile, the political battle over the government shutdown shows no signs of cooling. Senate Republicans, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have struggled to secure the 60 votes needed to pass funding legislation, with only three Democrats defying party lines. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has continued to press for a resolution, while President Donald Trump’s administration has escalated its pressure on Democratic leadership to reach a deal. In an interview with Punchbowl News, Schumer suggested that the situation is “getting better” for his party as the shutdown continues, noting the financial strain on federal agencies and the broader economy. House Speaker Mike Johnson, however, has criticized Schumer’s approach, calling it “a political prop” and warning that the shutdown is leading to a “kamikaze attack” on the government’s stability. As negotiations continue, the impact of the government shutdown on federal operations, including the TSA, remains a focal point of the debate, with Noem’s airport video serving as a powerful message to both Congress and the public on the urgency of resolving the funding impasse.