Several major U.S. airports are refusing to air a video featuring Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. In the video, Noem criticizes Democrats for their role in the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requested that airports display this message on screens near security lines. In the video, Noem states that TSA’s priority is to ensure a pleasant airport experience while keeping travelers safe. However, she claims that the lack of funding has impacted TSA operations and many employees are working without pay.
Notably, major airports in the New York City area, including John F. Kennedy International, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty, have opted not to air the video. A spokesperson from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey explained that their policies prevent the display of politically charged messages.
Other airports, such as Seattle–Tacoma, Charlotte Douglas, Portland International, Phoenix Sky Harbor, and Cleveland Hopkins, also declined to show the video due to its political nature.
Amid this shutdown, staffing shortages, particularly among air traffic controllers, have caused significant flight delays. Airlines warned travelers to expect disruptions over the recent Columbus Day holiday weekend. Reports emerged of delays at airports like Burbank and Nashville, compounded by bad weather.
Historically, government shutdowns have led to chaos in air travel. For instance, the shutdown earlier this year caused considerable flight disruptions due to staff shortages. In January 2019, a prolonged shutdown resulted in many TSA workers calling in sick, leading to closed security checkpoints at several airports.
As of now, air traffic controllers have received partial paychecks, but if the shutdown continues, they risk missing future payments. This ongoing situation highlights the importance of reliable federal funding for essential services like air travel safety.
For more information on how government shutdowns affect air travel, you can refer to the Transportation Security Administration’s official site TSA.
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