Mullin sworn in as DHS secretary as Republicans pitch new funding offer

Markwayne Mullin was sworn in as Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) amid an ongoing funding impasse between Democrats and Republicans. The dispute stems from Democratic demands for immigration enforcement reforms following the deaths of two US citizens, while Republicans prioritize funding the agency. The lapse in DHS funding has caused airport delays, prompting the deployment of ICE agents to assist TSA. Senate Republicans have proposed a compromise to restart funding for most of DHS, including ICE and CBP, but it excludes many of the reforms Democrats seek. The proposal emerged after a White House meeting where Trump seemingly backed down from his demand to tie DHS funding to the Save America Act.

TSA workers are facing increasing strain due to the ongoing DHS shutdown, now in its sixth week, which has left them unpaid. Over 400 TSA employees have quit, leading to high call-out rates and longer security lines at major US airports. In response, the White House deployed ICE agents to 14 airports to assist with staffing shortages. However, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) argues that ICE agents lack the specialized training needed for aviation security, further demoralizing TSA workers who are working without pay while ICE agents are being paid. Democrats in Congress are refusing to refund DHS until Republicans agree to ICE reforms.