Trump Rejects DHS Funding Proposal as Airport Disruptions Continue

By Aidan Christion

WASHINGTON — A proposed deal aimed at restoring funding to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and easing disruptions at U.S. airports has reportedly been rejected by former President Donald Trump.

According to reporting from Punchbowl News, Senate Republicans, led by Majority Leader John Thune, presented a plan that would fund all DHS operations except Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The proposal was designed to restore stability to key services, including ensuring that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents would receive pay during the ongoing shutdown. 

Democrats were reportedly prepared to accept the proposal, signaling a potential bipartisan path forward.

However, Trump declined the deal. Reports indicate he is instead urging Republicans to remain in Washington and continue negotiations tied to his broader immigration agenda, including the SAVE America Act.

The Department of Homeland Security shutdown, which began in February amid disputes over immigration policy, has now stretched into its second month. 

As a result, TSA agents have faced missed paychecks, and airports across the country have experienced staffing shortages, delays, and operational strain. 

While negotiations remain ongoing, no immediate resolution has been reached, leaving travelers and federal workers uncertain about when normal operations will resume.