Airports Nationwide Reject Kristi Noem Video Accusing Democrats of Causing Government Shutdown
Several major U.S. airports are rejecting a video featuring Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. The video accuses Democrats of causing the federal government shutdown and was released last week. It was initially obtained by Fox News and intended to be played at airport security lines.
Airports Refuse to Air Kristi Noem’s Video
The airports opting not to air the video include:
- Harry Reid International (Las Vegas)
- Portland International (Oregon)
- Seattle-Tacoma International (Washington)
- Charlotte Douglas International (North Carolina)
- Three airports in New York (Westchester County area)
- Niagara Falls International and Buffalo Niagara International (New York)
- Sky Harbor International (Phoenix)
Airport officials have cited various reasons for their decision, including concerns about the video’s political nature and compliance with federal law.
Reasons for Refusal
Representatives from the airports expressed their concerns through public statements. Key points from officials include:
- Molly Prescott from the Port of Portland stated that the Hatch Act prohibits political messaging in public assets.
- A spokesperson for Seattle-Tacoma International noted the political nature of the content led to its rejection.
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport mentioned a state law preventing political messages in municipal operations.
- Ken Jenkins, County Executive for Westchester County, criticized the tone of the video, calling it alarmist.
- NFTA, which operates airports near Niagara Falls, adhered to its policy against partisan messaging.
- Harry Reid International Airport expressed that the video’s political messaging did not align with their standard public service announcements.
- Sky Harbor International Airport stated its policy strictly bans political content.
Response from the Department of Homeland Security
In response to the controversies, the Department of Homeland Security reiterated key messages from the video. The statement emphasized that many TSA employees are currently working without pay due to the shutdown. It further urged reconciliation and bipartisan efforts to resolve the situation.
The rejection of the video by these airports underscores concerns about the implications of political messaging in public spaces, especially in venues governed by federal laws and regulations.
