#department_of_homeland_security

A 2.8 magnitude earthquake shook near San Ramon, California, on March 23, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor occurred at 3:34 a.m. and was centered approximately 2 miles east-southeast of San Ramon, at a depth of 6 miles. Residents who felt the quake are encouraged to submit reports through the USGS Felt Report form. Earthquakes are measured by their magnitude, which reflects the energy released at the earthquake’s source. The USGS explains that this system replaces the older Richter scale. Quakes ranging from 2.5 to 5.4 magnitude are typically felt but rarely cause significant damage. Earthquakes below 2.5 magnitude are generally not noticeable to most people. While earthquakes can occur anywhere, they are most common in regions such as Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, and Washington. The Department of Homeland Security notes that these events can trigger secondary hazards like fires, tsunamis, landslides, or avalanches. Globally, it is estimated that 500,000 earthquakes are detectable each year, with 100,000 of those felt by humans and 100 causing damage. During an earthquake, experts recommend immediate protective actions. If in a vehicle, drivers should pull over, stop, and set the parking brake. Those in bed should turn face-down and cover their heads with a pillow. Outdoor individuals should avoid buildings and not enter structures. Inside, people should stay put, avoid doorways, and follow the "drop, cover, and hold on" protocol. For those using wheelchairs or walkers, wheels should be locked, and users should remain seated until shaking stops. Covering the head and neck with arms is advised, and if possible, crawling under a sturdy table. If no shelter is available, moving to an interior wall away from windows is recommended.#california #department_of_homeland_security #us_geological_survey #san_ramon #earthquake_bot

Philadelphia International Airport TSA Wait Times Extended Due to Government Shutdown Travelers departing from Philadelphia International Airport are experiencing extended security screening delays as three terminals remain closed due to temporary TSA checkpoint closures. The closures, announced by airport officials on March 18, affect Terminal A-West, Terminal F, and Terminal C, with no set timeline for their reopening. These measures are part of efforts to optimize operations across remaining checkpoints amid ongoing staffing challenges linked to the partial government shutdown. The shutdown, now in its 34th day, has disrupted the Department of Homeland Security and impacted hundreds of TSA employees nationwide. With limited staffing, TSA officials have implemented temporary closures to manage the workload. Airport authorities recommend passengers arrive two-and-a-half hours before domestic flights and three-and-a-half hours prior to international departures to account for longer wait times. Real-time updates on TSA wait times and checkpoint hours are available on the airport’s official website. Airport officials acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the closures, stating in a social media post that they are working with TSA and airline partners to maintain efficient operations. However, the situation is expected to worsen as the shutdown continues. A DHS spokesperson noted that security screening delays are likely to increase, with over 300 TSA officers having resigned since the shutdown began. Callout rates for agents are currently double the normal level, and officials warned that resignations and callouts may rise further as the shutdown extends. TSA agents have also faced financial uncertainty, with many missing their first full paycheck on March 13.#tsa #department_of_homeland_security #philadelphia_international_airport #government_shutdown #american_airlines

Delays and Cancellations Persist at Major U.S. Airports Dozens of flights from Newark Liberty International, LaGuardia, and John F. Kennedy airports were delayed or cancelled on Sunday, March 22, 2026, as part of a broader pattern of disruptions linked to ongoing funding disputes and adverse weather conditions. The situation reflects a growing challenge for travelers, with delays and cancellations escalating in recent weeks due to a standoff in Washington over funding for the Department of Homeland Security. This includes the Transportation Security Administration, which has faced staffing shortages as TSA workers have gone unpaid for weeks. The resulting absences have led to longer security line waits and operational slowdowns at major airports. According to FlightAware, as of 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Newark Liberty International reported 41 delayed flights and eight cancellations, while LaGuardia had 42 delays and eight cancellations. John F. Kennedy International faced the highest impact, with 73 delays and 11 cancellations. Nationally, 8,531 flights were delayed and 480 were cancelled at the same time. The disruptions are expected to worsen throughout the day as conditions remain volatile. TSA checkpoints at Newark experienced wait times ranging from 1 to 12 minutes, depending on the terminal and gate, according to the airport’s real-time tracking system. The staffing crisis has been exacerbated by political gridlock, as Democrats have refused to fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement without operational reforms following the deaths of two U.S. citizens during an immigration campaign in Minneapolis.#department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration #newark_liberty_international #laguardia_airport #john_f_kennedy_airport

Travelers wait in long TSA lines at Chicago airports as schools begin spring break amid DHS shutdown Travelers faced extended waits at airport security checkpoints Saturday as Chicago Public Schools started spring break, prompting families to travel. The delays were attributed to a partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security, which has left TSA agents working without pay. President Donald Trump announced plans to deploy ICE agents to major airports as soon as Monday if a funding agreement for DHS is not reached. The move comes amid growing concerns over airport security and the strain on TSA staff. "If the Radical Left Democrats don't immediately sign an agreement to let our Country, in particular, our Airports, be FREE and SAFE again, I will move our brilliant and patriotic ICE Agents to the Airports where they will do Security like no one has ever seen before," Trump stated on Truth Social. The shutdown, now in its fifth week, has left nearly 50,000 TSA workers without pay, with many struggling to afford basic necessities. A DHS spokesperson confirmed that the call-out rate for TSA officers reached 10.22% on Friday, indicating a significant number of staff are unable to work. Travelers expressed frustration over the situation, with one noting, "Travelers are already extremely stressed by the time they get to the airport. Bring it another barrier outside of TSA." Long lines and wait times at airports like Chicago O'Hare International Airport have worsened due to staffing shortages. Travelers like Sheyla Morillon voiced concerns about the chaos, saying, "I'm a little concerned because we're probably in a big group today, and so we have a lot of stuff, so hopefully it just goes by fast.#donald_trump #tsa #department_of_homeland_security #chicago_public_schools #chicago_o_hare_international_airport

Airport Security Lines Are Long. Here's What to Know if You're Flying Travelers are facing long waits at airport security checkpoints as the Department of Homeland Security remains shut down, leading to staffing shortages and delays. With spring break in full swing, major airports in Houston, Atlanta, and New Orleans are reporting wait times of up to two hours, with some advising passengers to arrive three hours before their flights. In Philadelphia, three security checkpoints were closed entirely due to a lack of staff. The shutdown has left Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers without pay, as the agency is not funded by Congress. Over 50,000 TSA employees have been working without a full paycheck, and more than 300 officers have quit since the shutdown began on February 14. In Houston, nearly half of TSA staff called in sick, while a third did the same in Atlanta and New Orleans. These staffing issues are compounded by severe weather and school closures, which have further disrupted travel. President Trump has threatened to deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to airports if Congress does not fund the Department of Homeland Security. He promised to use ICE agents to enhance security and make arrests of undocumented immigrants. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of senators is working with the White House to resolve the shutdown and address immigration enforcement reforms. Transportation officials warn that the situation could worsen if the shutdown is not resolved. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that a second missed paycheck could lead to more staff resigning, potentially forcing some smaller airports to close. Billionaire Elon Musk has offered to personally pay TSA staff during the funding impasse, though U.S.#georgia #texas #louisiana #department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration

How to get TSA PreCheck: Steps to take as long security lines persist at US airports Long security lines at U.S. airports continued to plague travelers on Monday, with major hubs like O’Hare International Airport experiencing severe delays. The situation has worsened due to a combination of factors, including the ongoing partial government shutdown, spring break travel surges, and widespread flight cancellations and delays caused by powerful storms across the eastern United States. Airport authorities are urging passengers to arrive at least two and a half hours before domestic flights to avoid extended waits. For those seeking to bypass the chaos, TSA PreCheck offers a faster security experience. The federal program allows trusted travelers to use dedicated lanes, reducing wait times to under 10 minutes for most passengers. Children under 17 can accompany an enrolled adult at no additional cost. However, the program requires a fee of $85 for five years, and while the enrollment process can begin online, it must be completed in person. The current partial government shutdown, which began on February 14, has strained TSA operations, leading to staffing shortages at security checkpoints. The shutdown has also left many TSA workers without pay, with some facing financial hardships such as eviction notices, vehicle repossessions, and empty refrigerators. Over 300 TSA agents have quit since the shutdown began, exacerbating the staffing crisis. Union leaders have warned that wait times could worsen as the shutdown continues, but many TSA employees are still reporting for duty despite their struggles.#department_of_homeland_security #american_federation_of_government_employees #transportation_security_administration #ohare_international_airport #tsa_precheck

Fetterman Urges Democrats to Back Mullin for DHS Secretary Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) is calling on Democratic lawmakers to support Sen. Markwayne Mullin’s (R-Okla.) nomination for secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), arguing that the Republican senator deserves a chance to lead the agency. Fetterman, who has previously expressed skepticism about the political divide in the Senate, reiterated his intention to vote for Mullin’s confirmation during a recent interview. However, he acknowledged uncertainty about how many Democrats would follow suit, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation. Fetterman’s comments came as Mullin prepares to appear before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs for his confirmation hearing. During the interview, Fetterman criticized the political gridlock, questioning why Democrats should withhold support from a candidate who shares his priorities on border security and immigration enforcement. “Why can’t you just give someone a chance?” he asked, reflecting his frustration with the party’s reluctance to back Mullin despite his qualifications. The push for Mullin’s confirmation follows President Trump’s decision to replace Kristi Noem as DHS secretary, a move that drew mixed reactions from Democrats. While some praised the move as a response to Noem’s handling of immigration and FEMA oversight, others argued that a personnel change alone would not address systemic issues within the agency. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) stressed that “a change in personnel is not sufficient. We need a change in policy,” highlighting the broader concerns about DHS operations. Mullin’s nomination also comes amid a prolonged government shutdown of the DHS, which has been stalled for over a month due to funding disputes.#department_of_homeland_security #sen_john_fetterman #sen_markwayne_mullin #hakeem_jeffries

Senate Democrats Seek to End DHS Shutdown While Blocking GOP Efforts Senate Democrats have expressed a desire to conclude the government shutdown but have repeatedly obstructed Republican efforts to reopen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as they push for immigration enforcement reforms. On Friday, Senator Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., stated at a news conference following an antisemitic attack on the Temple Israel synagogue in her state that "certainly" Congress must fund DHS. However, Slotkin and most Senate Democrats have voted four times to block DHS funding, including several attempts to temporarily reopen the agency while negotiations continue. Slotkin is among several Senate Democrats advocating for an end to the shutdown. Republicans argue that these votes are part of a broader Democratic strategy to shift blame for the shutdown onto them. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and other Democrats have shifted their approach, aiming to reopen most of DHS while blaming Republicans for blocking their efforts. Senator Roger Marshall, R-Kan., criticized Democrats for attempting to deflect responsibility, stating, "Well, that’s what they do, right? And they're good at it. They're really good at it." He noted that Democrats have voted against funding DHS four times. Schumer accused Republicans of using federal workers from agencies under DHS, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as "hostages." He asserted, "I remind my Republican colleagues, we're going to be back here again and again, winning this debate and eventually winning the American people.#department_of_homeland_security #senate_democrats #transportation_security_administration #chuck_schumer #federal_emergency_management_agency

TSA Staff Resignations Spark Airport Chaos Amid Government Shutdown A growing number of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents have resigned or taken unscheduled time off amid a partial government shutdown, exacerbating travel disruptions as winter storms hit the Midwest and spring break travelers rush to the skies. The Department of Homeland Security reported that over 300 TSA employees have left their posts since the funding lapse began in mid-February, while others have missed work due to financial strain. This has led to longer security lines, delayed flights, and heightened stress for passengers at major airports. The shutdown, which began over a month ago, has left TSA workers without full pay, prompting many to seek alternative income sources. In a letter to Congress, airline CEOs from American, Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue urged lawmakers to restore funding for the Department of Homeland Security and implement a bipartisan solution to ensure federal aviation workers are paid during future shutdowns. The letter highlighted the difficulty of meeting basic needs without pay, noting that “it’s difficult, if not impossible, to put food on the table, put gas in the car and pay rent when you are not getting paid.” Union leaders have echoed these concerns. Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, called the mass resignations “no surprise,” emphasizing that most workers would quit if they weren’t paid on time. However, he acknowledged that many TSA officers continue to perform their duties with “care and professionalism.” Last year, over 1,110 TSA employees left the agency during a previous shutdown, and similar patterns are emerging now. The staffing crisis has been compounded by a surge in unscheduled absences.#southwest_airlines #delta_airlines #tsa #department_of_homeland_security #american_airlines

Spring break travelers face long TSA lines and flight delays as the U.S. government shutdown strains airport operations Passengers heading to airports during the ongoing partial government shutdown are experiencing significant delays, with long security lines and flight cancellations reported across the country. Travel expert Eric Napoli, chief legal officer at AirHelp, warned that security lines at some airports are exceeding three hours, urging travelers to plan ahead and adjust their schedules to avoid missing flights. The disruptions stem from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, which has led to a shortage of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers. Over 300 TSA agents have left the agency since the shutdown began, and unscheduled absences have risen to about 6% nationwide. Napoli emphasized that the lack of paid staffing has created operational strain, contributing to delays at airports nationwide. Footage from Austin, Texas, showed security lines stretching outside airport terminals early Friday, with passengers waiting hours to board flights. Napoli told FOX Business that many travelers who underestimated the impact of the shutdown are missing their flights, highlighting the need for proactive planning. Global Entry processing, which had been paused earlier during the shutdown, resumed last Wednesday. Napoli noted this could help alleviate congestion by diverting some travelers away from standard security lines. He recommended booking early-morning flights, which are less likely to be affected by cascading delays throughout the day. Passengers are also advised to pack essential items in carry-on bags to account for potential baggage delays or overnight disruptions.#texas #department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration #eric_napoli #airhelp

April Social Security Direct Payment Worth $994 Goes Out in 19 Days The Social Security Administration will issue the April 2026 Supplemental Security Income payments, which range up to $994, to recipients in 19 days. These payments are typically distributed on the first day of each month, but if the first day falls on a weekend or holiday, as it did in March, the payments are issued on the last business day of the previous month. Beneficiaries of SSI are individuals with limited income who are either blind, aged 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability. The amount received depends on factors such as the number of people filing. For example, single filers can receive up to $994, couples filing jointly may receive $1,491, and those providing essential care to SSI recipients can receive up to $498. To qualify, recipients must be U.S. citizens or noncitizens in one of the alien classifications approved by the Department of Homeland Security. They must also reside in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands and must not be absent from the United States for a full calendar month or 30 consecutive days. A full calendar of Social Security Administration payment dates can be accessed on the agency’s official website. The payment schedule ensures recipients receive their benefits in a timely manner, even when adjustments are needed due to weekends or holidays. The SSI program plays a critical role in supporting vulnerable populations, providing financial assistance to those who meet strict eligibility criteria. The April payment marks another milestone in the ongoing distribution of benefits, reflecting the program’s commitment to meeting the needs of its recipients.#social_security_administration #department_of_homeland_security #supplemental_security_income #northern_mariana_islands #social_security_payment_schedule

TSA Agent Warns of Morale Crisis as Unpaid Work Plagues Homeland Security Shutdown Transportation Security Officer Deondre White described to Fox News Digital the severe impact of the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown on TSA employees, calling the situation “unfair” as agents face financial strain and emotional distress while performing their duties without full pay. The lapse in federal funding has left many TSA officers working without compensation, forcing them to rely on partial paychecks or personal savings to support their families. White emphasized that the prolonged shutdown is taking a toll on both their livelihoods and mental well-being, with some agents struggling to meet basic needs while continuing to serve the public. The officer’s comments highlight a growing crisis within the TSA workforce, as unpaid hours mount and uncertainty about the shutdown’s duration persists. White stated that the lack of financial stability has created a sense of frustration and helplessness among agents, many of whom are unable to afford essentials like groceries or housing. “We’re hurting,” he said, adding that the situation is unsustainable for both employees and the agency’s operations. The shutdown has also disrupted airport security processes, leading to delays and increased stress for travelers. With TSA agents working without pay, the agency faces challenges in maintaining its usual level of service, further compounding the strain on staff. White urged Washington officials to address the funding gap, arguing that the current state of affairs is unacceptable for both workers and the public. As the shutdown continues, the situation underscores broader concerns about government operations during fiscal crises.#department_of_homeland_security #tsa_agent #deondre_white #tsa_officers #federal_funding

Global Entry Returns to Airports Amid War Disruptions The ongoing conflict with Iran has caused widespread disruptions to international travel, with thousands of flights and excursions canceled and many travelers facing difficulties securing refunds. As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the U.S. government is reinstating the Global Entry program at airports, which had been suspended during the partial government shutdown. The Department of Homeland Security announced the program’s return, allowing pre-approved travelers to expedite their entry into the United States. Global Entry, a fee-based initiative, had been temporarily halted to reallocate personnel to support the broader traveling public during the shutdown. With the war continuing to impact global airspace, the program is now resuming operations. However, experts warn that travel insurance and credit card protections typically do not cover losses related to acts of war. Eric Rosen, director of content at travel website The Points Guy, emphasized that most policies exclude coverage for conflicts, particularly for trips booked with knowledge of ongoing hostilities. Travelers are also facing longer security wait times, especially during peak periods like Spring Break. ABC News reported that over 300 TSA officers have left the agency, and the call-out rate for additional staff has more than doubled since the shutdown began. To mitigate risks, travel experts recommend booking refundable hotel rooms with flexible cancellation policies, avoiding Basic Economy airline tickets that lack change or refund options, and booking directly with airlines and hotels rather than third-party platforms.#tsa #abc_news #department_of_homeland_security #global_entry #the_points_guy

TSA absences double during shutdown, 300 officers quit, as some airports see longer security lines Unscheduled absences among airport security officers have more than doubled during the ongoing Department of Homeland Security shutdown, with over 300 employees leaving the agency since the funding lapse began, according to internal TSA data obtained by CBS News. The agency’s call-out rates have surged to double-digit percentages at several airports, straining screening operations and causing delays at security checkpoints. TSA officials reported that the nationwide call-out rate—unscheduled absences by frontline officers—has risen to an average of 6% during the shutdown, compared to about 2% before the funding crisis began. The highest national absence rate reached 9% on February 23, followed by 8% on March 6 and 7% on March 9. These figures reflect a significant increase in staffing shortages, which have been exacerbated by the fact that roughly 50,000 TSA employees are working without pay during the shutdown. At individual airports, the impact has been even more severe. At Houston’s Hobby Airport, 53% of officers called out on March 8, with 47% absent the following day, resulting in nearly half of scheduled staff failing to report for duty. Similarly, John F. Kennedy International Airport saw an average absence rate of 21% during the shutdown, the highest among major airports. Other heavily affected hubs included Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (19%), William P. Hobby Airport in Houston (18%), Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (14%), and Pittsburgh International Airport (13%). Extreme weather events have further compounded the staffing crisis.#hartsfield_jackson_atlanta_international_airport #tsa #department_of_homeland_security #john_f_kennedy_international_airport #newark_liberty_international_airport

Minnesota Launches Probe Into Federal Immigration Officer Misconduct A Minnesota prosecutor announced Monday that her office is investigating potential charges against federal immigration officers, including Border Patrol official Greg Bovino, for alleged misconduct during recent enforcement operations. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty revealed that her team is examining 17 cases, including incidents where federal agents used chemical irritants against protesters and engaged in confrontations with civilians. One notable case involves Bovino allegedly throwing a smoke canister at demonstrators on January 21, while another incident occurred on January 7 when officers made an arrest near a high school, exposing students and staff to chemical agents. Moriarty emphasized her office’s commitment to pursuing justice, stating, “We are not afraid of the legal fight, and we are committed to doing this correctly.” She criticized the federal operation, known as Operation Metro Surge, for causing significant harm to the community. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responded by asserting that such enforcement is a federal responsibility and that states cannot prosecute federal officers. A DHS statement claimed the actions of Minnesota officials are “unlawful” and warned that local authorities should focus on protecting federal law enforcement rather than challenging their authority. Bovino, a key figure in the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement strategies, has been associated with aggressive tactics in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Chicago, and Los Angeles. In Chicago, federal officers frequently used chemical irritants as crowd control, prompting a judge to order Bovino to wear a body camera and appear in court daily.#minnesota #department_of_homeland_security #greg_bovino #mary_moriarty #hennepin_county_attorney

Minnesota launches investigation that could bring charges against US immigration officers A Minnesota state prosecutor announced an investigation on Monday that may lead to charges against federal immigration officers, including Greg Bovino, for misconduct during a recent enforcement operation. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty stated her office is examining 17 cases, including one involving Bovino, a border patrol official, who threw a smoke canister at protesters on 21 January. The investigation also includes the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, by federal agents on 7 and 24 January, respectively. Moriarty emphasized her confidence in pursuing charges in cases that sparked nationwide protests and criticism of federal immigration enforcement practices. Another incident under scrutiny occurred on 7 January, when federal officers arrested individuals outside a high school and used chemical irritants while students and staff were present. Moriarty asserted that her office is prepared to face legal challenges, stating, “Make no mistake – we are not afraid of the legal fight, and we are committed to doing this correctly.” She criticized the “Metro Surge” immigration enforcement operation for causing significant harm to the community. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responded by asserting that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and that states cannot prosecute federal officers. The agency claimed such actions are unlawful and warned that local officials should focus on protecting federal law enforcement rather than interfering with their duties. A message seeking Bovino’s response was not immediately returned.#department_of_homeland_security #greg_bovino #hennepin_county_attorney #mariarty #rene_e_good

Minnesota launches investigation that could bring charges against US immigration officers Minnesota state prosecutors have initiated an investigation that may result in criminal charges against federal immigration officers, including Greg Bovino, for alleged misconduct during recent enforcement operations. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the probe on Monday, stating her office is examining 17 cases, including incidents involving Bovino, a border patrol agent, and the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Moriarty emphasized her confidence in pursuing charges in cases that sparked nationwide protests and criticism of federal immigration enforcement practices. One of the cases under review involves Bovino throwing a smoke canister at protesters on January 21, while another focuses on the deaths of Good and Pretti, who were shot by federal agents on January 7 and 24, respectively. Moriarty also highlighted a separate incident on January 7, where officers used chemical irritants during an arrest outside a high school, exposing students and staff to the agents’ actions. She reiterated her commitment to holding officials accountable, stating, “We are not afraid of the legal fight,” and condemned the “Metro Surge” operation as having caused “immeasurable harm” to the community. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) swiftly responded, asserting that federal enforcement is a matter of federal jurisdiction and that states cannot prosecute federal officers. The agency claimed such actions are “unlawful” and warned that local officials should instead address risks to law enforcement. A statement from DHS noted that federal agents are immune from state legal liability while performing their duties.#minnesota #department_of_homeland_security #greg_bovino #hennepin_county #mary_moriarty

U.S. Immigration Crackdown The Department of Homeland Security has launched an internal probe into allegations that Gregory Bovino, a senior Border Patrol commander, made derogatory remarks about the Jewish faith of the top federal prosecutor in Minnesota during an immigration operation. The investigation follows reports that Mr. Bovino, a central figure in the government’s recent crackdown in the state, expressed frustration over the difficulty of contacting U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen during a phone call in January. According to multiple individuals with knowledge of the call, Mr. Bovino criticized Mr. Rosen, an Orthodox Jew, for being unreachable over the weekend due to his observance of Shabbat. Shabbat, a 25-hour period of rest beginning at Friday sunset, typically involves abstaining from electronic devices and other activities. During the call, Mr. Bovino used the term “chosen people” to describe Mr. Rosen, sarcastically questioning whether Orthodox Jewish individuals refrained from breaking the law during the weekend. The New York Times first reported the details of the call in late January, citing anonymous sources who described the conversation. CBS News later corroborated key aspects of the account. The Times declined to comment on its reporting when contacted by Mr. Breckenridge, a representative involved in the investigation, who sought assistance in reaching the anonymous sources. Mr. Breckenridge did not confirm whether the investigation extended to other alleged misconduct by Mr. Bovino. The incident has sparked broader discussions about the conduct of Border Patrol officials and the potential for religious discrimination within federal law enforcement.#new_york_times #cbs_news #department_of_homeland_security #gregory_bovino #daniel_n_rosen

U.S. Immigration Crackdown The Department of Homeland Security has launched an internal investigation into remarks made by Gregory Bovino, a senior Border Patrol commander, during an immigration operation in Minnesota. The inquiry follows reports that Mr. Bovino, a key figure in the government’s recent crackdown on immigration, made disparaging comments about the Jewish faith of Daniel N. Rosen, the U.S. attorney in Minnesota. According to multiple individuals with knowledge of the incident, Mr. Bovino expressed frustration during a phone call in January over the difficulty of contacting Mr. Rosen, who is an Orthodox Jew. The call occurred during a weekend when Mr. Rosen was observing Shabbat, a 25-hour period of rest that begins at sunset on Friday and typically involves refraining from using electronic devices. Mr. Bovino used the term “chosen people” to describe Mr. Rosen, sarcastically questioning whether Orthodox Jewish individuals avoided breaking the law during the weekend. The New York Times first reported the details of the call in late January, based on anonymous accounts of the conversation. CBS News later confirmed key aspects of the exchange. During the investigation, Mr. Breckenridge, a representative of the Department of Homeland Security, contacted The Times to seek assistance in contacting the individuals who provided information about the call. The Times declined to share details of its reporting, adhering to its standard policy on such requests. Mr. Breckenridge did not confirm whether the investigation extended to other alleged misconduct by Mr. Bovino.#new_york_times #cbs_news #department_of_homeland_security #gregory_bovino #daniel_n_rosen