Washington, D.C. — The White House has declined an offer from Elon Musk to personally fund salaries for TSA agents during the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, citing legal concerns tied to federal contracting rules. The shutdown has lasted more than a month, leaving tens of thousands of airport security workers without pay.
In a statement, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said the administration appreciated the offer but warned it would present “significant legal challenges” due to Musk’s companies having extensive federal contracts. Reports indicate Musk-linked businesses have received tens of billions in government funding through contracts, loans, and subsidies over the years.
Musk, CEO of Tesla and owner of X, proposed covering TSA salaries to ease financial strain on workers, many of whom have reportedly relied on food pantries and community support. President Donald Trump publicly supported the idea, saying he would “love it” if Musk followed through.
The proposal also drew bipartisan praise from lawmakers, including Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA) and Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), who described the offer as generous given the hardship facing workers.
DHS officials told lawmakers that more than 480 airport screeners have already resigned during the shutdown, with the agency projecting up to $1 billion in lost wages. The administration continues to argue that congressional funding remains the only viable solution to restore pay.
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