Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) said on March 24 that the ongoing government shutdown is harming Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents and their families, urging immediate funding for the Department of Homeland Security.
The shutdown, which began on February 13, has resulted in thousands of TSA agents missing paychecks and increased absenteeism at airports across the country. Barrasso said this situation is causing long lines at airports and creating hardship for workers who are struggling to provide for their families.
“For five weeks, TSA agents have not gotten paid. Most continue to show up for work anyway. These TSA agents are struggling. They need to provide for their families,” Barrasso said in prepared remarks. He added, “As a result of the Democrat shutdown, some TSA agents are calling in sick or seeking new employment.”
Barrasso cited specific figures: nearly 3,500 TSA agents were absent from work on Sunday alone, with more than 400 having quit since the start of the shutdown. Absentee rates were particularly high in certain cities: “In Atlanta, Georgia, 42 percent of TSA agents did not show up for work on Sunday. In Houston, Texas, 40 percent were absent. In New York City, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one in four TSA agents were absent.”
He continued by stating his position on ending the impasse: “Immediately funding the Department of Homeland Security is the only way to end this shutdown.” Barrasso also said: “The Democrat shutdown is dangerous and disgraceful. Once again, Democrats are proving they care more about illegal immigrant criminals than the safety and security of American citizens.”
Barrasso resides with his three children in Casper according to his official website. He chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s Public Lands, Forests and Mining Subcommittee according to his official website, supports policies promoting energy affordability as well as opportunities for Wyoming ranchers according to his official website, operates offices across Wyoming including Casper and Washington according to his official website, earned recognition as Wyoming Physician of the Year according to his official website, focuses on priorities such as energy and trade according to his official website, serves as Senate Republican whip while promoting energy policies that support ranchers according to his official website.
Observers will be watching how Congress responds amid growing concerns about airport operations nationwide.
