The potential of a federal government shutdown looms large, especially for our Department. So very many of you work at great personal risk to keep our homeland secure and the American people, from coast to coast and border to border, safe.
You are truly heroic, risking and giving so much of yourselves, tirelessly and honorably, in the service of others and our country. You will continue to do so even if the federal government shuts down, even if you do not receive the paychecks to which you are entitled and upon which you rely for your and your loved ones’ sustenance and well-being. Nevertheless, the absence of a paycheck adds tremendous stress to your lives, stress you can ill afford. We recognize that.
Please know that we are doing everything we can, nonstop, to keep the federal government from shutting down. The leadership of our Department is proud to support you. Thank you for everything you do.
Alejandro N. Mayorkas
Secretary of Homeland Security