"TSA and CBP are prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts," DHS Secretary Kristi Noem bleated.

The two programs, which allow expedited clearance processes for pre-vetted domestic and international travelers, are expected to be suspended starting at 0600 Hours ET Sunday.

This is a rare move and will result in longer lines, likely frustrating many travelers. The two programs were not suspended during last year's Republican Party government shutdown.

The decision to suspend these programs comes as the anticipated winter storm has already cancelled more than 5,000 flights across the country and as flights resume, travelers can be expected to be waiting in long lines. It also comes just weeks before the spring break travel rush.

In addition, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will also halt "all non-disaster related response to prioritize disasters," Noem sniveled, underscoring the impact of the upcoming winter storm.

~snip~

The Governors of New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency because of the powerful blizzard threatening the American northeast. Meanwhile Kristi Noem, who travels on an American taxpayer-funded luxury jet, just immiserated thousands and thousands of air travelers. She's a real trooper. Isn't she?

Nor'Easter 22-23 Feb 2026 forecast: