Overview:
Following a record 43-day government shutdown, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents who continued working without pay will receive $10,000 bonuses. The secretary praised TSA officers for their patriotism and resilience, particularly those who took on additional shifts to maintain airport security and minimize disruptions to travelers.
Washington, D.C. — November 13, 2025
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem held a press briefing following the conclusion of a 43-day federal government shutdown. She announced a $10,000 bonus for TSA agents who worked without pay during the impasse. Speaking from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Noem expressed gratitude to airport security staff across the country. They ensured passenger safety during a period of significant disruption.
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“Our TSA officers stepped up every single day to make sure travelers remained safe,” Noem said. “They took on extra shifts, served with honor, and kept our transportation systems secure even as their own families faced hardship.”
Noem emphasized that the bonuses will apply nationwide. She highlighted several TSA employees by name, including Rico Walker, a 20-year veteran and member of the National Deployment Force. He reportedly took on extra responsibilities during the shutdown. Another employee, Ashley, continued her duties while facing financial uncertainty as she attempted to purchase a new home.
“This bonus will help get families like hers back on their feet,” Noem said, calling Ashley’s optimism “an example of what is special about America.”
Wider Recognition and Policy Updates
Noem also recognized Federal Security Director Juan Sanchez and his deputies, Jimmy and Jose. She commended them for leading their teams through what she called “one of the most difficult operational periods” in recent memory.
The secretary said the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will continue evaluating “every single TSA employee” who worked through the shutdown. This evaluation will determine bonus eligibility. According to Noem, tens of thousands of TSA employees may qualify for the payments.
Funding for the bonuses, she stated, would come from savings within existing DHS budgets. She cited “efficiencies and renegotiated contracts” that produced surplus funds.
Expanding TSA Initiatives
In addition to the bonus announcement, Noem previewed new TSA policy measures. These are aimed at improving traveler experience and recognizing service members and families. These include:
- Veterans and Military Lanes: Expedited screening for active-duty and retired military personnel.
- Family Lanes: Dedicated security lines for parents traveling with young children.
- New Screening Technologies: Tools allowing travelers to keep shoes on during security checks while maintaining safety standards.
“These innovations make air travel more secure and more humane,” Noem said. “We’re committed to honoring the people who protect our skies while helping passengers move through the system efficiently.”
Shutdown Context and Political Framing
Throughout her remarks, blame pointed towards Democratic leaders—Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. She described the shutdown as “a crisis pushed on us by the Democratic Party.”
While her comments framed the impasse in partisan terms, Noem said her priority now is to ensure that DHS employees “feel appreciated and supported” after weeks of financial strain.
“When people are struggling at home, it’s hard to serve with excellence,” she noted. “We’re doing everything we can to help these families recover.”
Looking Ahead
As federal agencies resume normal operations, Noem pledged continued support for frontline security personnel. She said the DHS is working with the White House on potential measures. These measures aim to classify TSA employees as “essential” in future shutdowns—ensuring they continue to receive pay during government closures.
The department expects bonus payments to begin processing “within the next few days,” according to Noem. She concluded her remarks by thanking the public and private partners who supported TSA families during the shutdown.
“Even in times of division, we saw the best of America,” Noem said. “People came together, took care of one another, and upheld the mission to keep our country safe.”
Editor’s Note:
This article summarizes public remarks made by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during a press briefing courtesy of CSPAN.org on November 13, 2025. Presence News does not endorse any political statements included in her remarks. All quotations are taken directly from the transcript provided by the Department of Homeland Security.
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