Travelers at Sacramento airport express concern over national ICE deployment at TSA security lines, even as officials confirm no such plans locally.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Travelers at Sacramento International Airport say they are increasingly uneasy following reports that immigration agents could be deployed at airport security lines across the country, even as local officials say there are no such plans in Sacramento.
Passengers moving through TSA checkpoints on Monday morning experienced relatively smooth lines, with airport officials saying staffing shortages have been minimal and wait times remain consistent with pre-shutdown levels.
“I’m really grateful that the TSA workers, even though they’re not getting paid, are still showing up to work,” said Rachel Chun, who was headed to Tampa, Florida. “I think they’ve all had a really great attitude, and I’ve made sure to thank them all for being there.”
The concerns come after President Donald Trump said he would deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to several U.S. airports on Monday to assist TSA during the government shutdown.
While no ICE agents were seen at Sacramento International Airport, some travelers said social media posts about the possibility have raised concerns about flying through other airports.
Jaylen Aufforth, who flew into Sacramento from Houston, said he encountered long lines before his flight.
“I got there at 11:00 p.m. the night before, and thankfully I did because I got to the front of the line, but at 2:30 when TSA opens up before then it was already the line was out the door, and it was all the way downstairs to the baggage claim like. It’s bad,” Aufforth said.
He said he does not support using ICE agents to fill in for TSA workers.
“I think he should let TSA do their job, and he should pay them,” Aufforth said. “Personally, I think ICE isn’t qualified in what they do already, so to have them come manage the airport too is not a good idea in my books.”
Airport officials said in a statement that while they are aware of reports about ICE assisting TSA at some locations, there are currently no plans to implement that at Sacramento International Airport.
Despite that assurance, some community members remain concerned. One protester spent several hours outside the airport on Monday, handing out “Know Your Rights” materials and whistles to travelers.
“I think it puts a fear like hey you this could be my last time I could see my family,” Consuela said. “Or this, I could be sent to one of these concentration camps or the detention centers and be there for however long.”
Others said their priority is getting through security without delays.
“Ideally, it’s just one of those things where it’s like, if I can get to my flight on time, I don’t really have a problem with any of that stuff,” said Prince Obere, who was headed to Dallas.
Airport officials said they will continue working with TSA and airline partners to maintain safety and efficiency, adding they remain committed to providing a welcoming experience for travelers.
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