Government Shutdown May Lead to Increased TSA Wait Times

(NewsNation) — The Transportation Safety Agency says an extended shutdown could lead to longer wait times at airports.

When asked about reports of longer waits, the TSA responded to Nexstar’s NewsNation with a statement.

“Beginning midnight October 1st, funding for much of the Federal Government will have expired due to the partisan politics of left-wing politicians. While it is unfortunate some of our politicians have put politics before the well-being of our country, TSA is prepared for an orderly shutdown. Approximately 61,000 of the agency`s 64,000 employees are considered excepted or exempt and TSA will continue operations to keep the travelling public safe. The remaining employees will be temporarily furloughed,” the agency said.

“While TSA is prepared to continue screening about 2.5M passengers a day, an extended shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports. We kindly ask for our passengers’ patience during this time. Despite this challenge, we will remain vigilant and focused on performing our vital security mission on behalf of the American people.”

The statement, similar to ones issued by other Trump administration agencies, places blame for the shutdown on Democrats.

That is a departure from how previous shutdowns have been handled, and ethics experts have raised the alarm that agencies are running afoul of policies meant to ensure they remain nonpolitical, including antilobbying laws and the Hatch Act.

Previous presidents have placed blame for shutdowns on Congress but avoided pointing fingers at either political party.

The current shutdown is projected to go at least through Friday, as Democrats and Republicans remain far apart in negotiations.