3/25: The Takeout with Major Garrett
#DHS shutdown #TSA lines #Trump Iran #federal employees #airport security #political impasse #border security
📌 Key Takeaways
- DHS shutdown entered its 40th day on March 25, 2025
- Long TSA lines continue across the country
- White House warns Trump will 'unleash Hell' on Iran if no deal is reached
- TSA officers continue working without pay
📖 Full Retelling
🏷️ Themes
Government shutdown, National security, International relations
📚 Related People & Topics
Major Garrett
American journalist (born 1962)
Major Elliott Garrett (born August 24, 1962) is an American journalist who is chief Washington correspondent for CBS News and the host of The Takeout on CBS News 24/7. He was previously a correspondent for National Journal. Prior to joining National Journal, he was the senior White House corresponde...
Take Out (disambiguation)
Topics referred to by the same term
Take-out is food purchased at a restaurant that the purchaser intends to eat elsewhere.
2026 United States federal government shutdowns
Two shutdowns of the U.S. federal government have occurred in 2026, both arising from disputes in Congress about reforms to federal immigration enforcement after the killing of Alex Pretti by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents. The first shutdown lasted four days from January 31 to February ...
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Deep Analysis
Why It Matters
The DHS shutdown entering its 40th day has significant implications for national security, airport operations, and the financial well-being of thousands of federal workers. The combination of domestic political gridlock and international tensions with Iran creates a dual crisis that could escalate rapidly. This situation affects not only federal employees and travelers but also has broader implications for U.S. foreign policy and domestic stability.
Context & Background
- DHS was created in response to the 9/11 attacks to consolidate various federal agencies responsible for security
- The U.S. has a history of government shutdowns, with the longest prior to this one lasting 35 days in 2018-2019
- Trump administration has taken a hardline stance on Iran since withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018
- TSA was created after 9/11 and has faced staffing challenges and political battles over funding
- The current shutdown is focused on border security funding and immigration policy disagreements
- Federal employees have previously been required to work without pay during shutdowns, though they typically receive back pay
- Iran nuclear deal negotiations have been ongoing since 2021 after the Biden administration sought to rejoin
What Happens Next
The DHS shutdown is likely to continue as both parties remain entrenched in their positions over border security funding. TSA lines may worsen as more officers potentially call in sick or leave their positions without pay. The situation with Iran could escalate if nuclear talks fail completely, potentially leading to increased military rhetoric or even action. Federal employees may continue to rely on donations and food banks, with some potentially facing eviction or other financial crises. Congress may eventually pass a temporary funding measure to address the most critical functions, but a permanent resolution seems unlikely in the near term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Federal employees deemed essential can be required to work without pay during a shutdown. However, historically, they have typically received back pay once the government reopens, though this is not guaranteed.
The President has limited powers during a shutdown. He can prioritize certain functions, but cannot unilaterally appropriate funds or force agencies to operate without congressional approval.
The main issues include Iran's uranium enrichment levels, sanctions relief, verification mechanisms, and regional activities. Both sides have shown little willingness to compromise on their core demands.
Shutdowns can lead to staffing shortages at TSA as officers work without pay, resulting in longer lines and potentially reduced security protocols. Air traffic controllers and other essential personnel are typically required to work without pay.
Shutdowns can cost the economy billions of dollars through reduced productivity, delayed payments to businesses and contractors, and decreased consumer spending. They also cause significant financial hardship for federal employees.
Yes, President Trump has a history of using strong rhetoric with Iran, including the 'maximum pressure' campaign during his first term. However, the specific phrase 'unleash Hell' represents an escalation in his public statements.