Trump Weighs Emergency Powers as DHS Funding Standoff Intensifies

Key Facts

Published: March 26, 2026 Location: Washington D.C. Source: Wall Street Journal

• Senate Republicans are urging President Donald Trump to consider declaring a national emergency to fund TSA agents amid the DHS funding deadlock
• The White House is weighing emergency powers and alternative measures as airport delays worsen ahead of Easter and Passover travel
• Ongoing disputes over immigration policy continue to stall negotiations, raising the risk of legal challenges and further disruption

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

WASHINGTON D.C. (Worthy News) – Senate Republicans are urging Donald Trump to consider declaring a national emergency to ensure Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents are paid, as a funding standoff over the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) threatens to disrupt travel during the busy spring holiday season, the Wall Street Journal reported.

According to officials familiar with the discussions, invoking the National Emergencies Act could allow the administration to redirect unspent federal funds to temporarily cover TSA payroll. The move is being considered as negotiations with Senate Democrats remain deadlocked ahead of a looming weekend deadline.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune told colleagues the White House is weighing unilateral action if talks fail, while lawmakers warn that prolonged delays could worsen airport congestion as Americans travel for Easter and Passover.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said discussions are ongoing but emphasized that the “best and easiest way” to resolve the issue is for Congress to pass DHS funding.

At a cabinet meeting, Trump warned that “very drastic measures” could be taken if lawmakers fail to reach an agreement.

Republicans, who hold a narrow Senate majority, have struggled to advance funding legislation requiring 60 votes, after Democrats blocked a previous bill while pushing for tighter immigration enforcement restrictions. Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins said the administration may ultimately act if negotiations remain stalled.

A revised Republican proposal would fund most of DHS while reducing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforcement funding by roughly $5.4 billion and adding accountability measures such as body cameras. However, disagreements over immigration policy continue to hinder progress.

Some lawmakers have floated alternative approaches, including passing a standalone TSA funding bill or using budget reconciliation to bypass the filibuster for broader DHS funding.

Meanwhile, the administration has already deployed ICE personnel to assist at airports, and Trump has indicated the National Guard could be mobilized if travel disruptions worsen.

Legal experts note that any attempt to reallocate funds without congressional approval could face court challenges under federal spending laws, adding further uncertainty to an already high-stakes impasse.

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