Fort Lauderdale, Fla. — Airports across the United States are refusing to broadcast a video featuring Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who blames Democrats for the federal government shutdown impacting TSA operations due to its political content.
Airports including those in Las Vegas, Charlotte, Atlanta, and Seattle have stated that the video conflicts with their policies against political messaging within their terminals.
The shutdown has caused significant disruptions to airport operations, leaving many TSA employees working without pay. Various federal agencies have also sent out communications echoing the sentiment of blaming Democrats for the current impasse. This has led to concerns that it may violate the 1939 Hatch Act, which restricts certain political activities by federal employees.
Noem emphasizes that TSA's primary goal is to ensure safe and pleasant travel for passengers, but points out that the shutdown has severely impacted operations, with many TSA workers currently unpaid. “However, Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government, and because of this, many of our operations are impacted,” Noem stated.
Despite the message's focus on informing the public about the TSA's operational status, critics argue that it is alarmist and politically charged. Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins expressed his disapproval of the video as inappropriate and unacceptable, citing its divisive tone and potential to undermine public trust.
Authorities from various airports emphasize their commitment to maintaining a politically neutral environment, in line with the Hatch Act. The Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas highlighted that their facilities are not designated public forums for political or religious advocacy.
As negotiations to reopen the government stall, the impact on TSA operations and air travel continues to grow, complicating the already strained relationships between federal lawmakers.
