As the partial government shutdown approaches a month, TSA workers are facing significant financial strain, missing their first paychecks while travelers continue to pay airport security fees. Major US airports are experiencing long security lines due to understaffing, prompting some, like Denver Airport and BWI-Marshall, to ask for donations, including gift cards, to support TSA employees without pay. Passengers are advised to arrive at least four hours early to navigate through the extensive delays. As frustration mounts, some TSA agents report feeling compelled to leave their jobs, exacerbating the staffing crisis. Meanwhile, lawmakers remain at an impasse, offering no immediate solutions to end the shutdown.