Millions to lose TSA PreCheck access during shutdown
USA Today3 days
DHS Reverses Decision to Suspend TSA PreCheck, Global Entry
Was suspending TSA PreCheck a deliberate tactic to create chaos or a consequence of Democratic obstruction?
Above: A TSA PreCheck sign at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois, on Oct. 10, 2025. Image credit: Christopher Dilts/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Suspending TSA PreCheck and Global Entry makes zero practical sense when these programs actually help DHS operate more efficiently with fewer agents, especially since Global Entry is nearly fully automated. This looked like a deliberate tactic to create chaos and anger travelers right before a major winter storm and spring break.
Right narrative
Democrats created a 43-day travel disaster last fall by shutting down the government, and now they're doing it again by refusing to fund DHS. Shutdowns have serious real-world consequences, and if Democrats fail to reach a funding deal, travelers will face the same lengthy delays and canceled flights that their obstruction caused before.
Narrative C
The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry was deeply disappointing and reflected troubling political dysfunction. For months, Democrats and Republicans have leveraged air traffic controllers, TSA, CBP and the broader travel system for political gain. Travelers deserve prioritization, not manipulation. Travel fuels the American economy, and mobility, security and efficiency should never suffer because leaders cannot resolve differences.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
Political split
LEFT
RIGHT
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0