US Airports Block Kristi Noem Video Blaming Democrats for Government Shutdown
Several major US airports are rejecting a video from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that critiques Democrats for the current government shutdown. This decision affects major airports including Phoenix Sky Harbor, Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International, Seattle-Tacoma, Charlotte Douglas, and several others.
Rejection of Political Messaging
Airport authorities in various regions voiced concerns over the video’s overt political messaging. They argue that airing such content may violate both state and federal laws, particularly the Hatch Act.
- The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from engaging in partisan political activity.
- Airports believe airing the video could misuse public resources for political purposes.
Details of the Video
In the controversial video, Kristi Noem claims, “Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government,” impacting operations particularly at the TSA. This was first reported by Fox News, serving as a centerpoint in the discussion surrounding the ongoing shutdown.
Statements from Airport Authorities
The Port of Portland emphasized their stance, stating, “We believe the Hatch Act clearly prohibits the use of public assets for political purposes.” They highlighted that Oregon law further restricts public officials from endorsing or opposing political entities.
Similarly, Harry Reid International Airport explained their refusal by asserting that the video’s political content clashes with the non-partisan nature of standard public service announcements.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport echoed these sentiments, maintaining their policy against political content. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport also cited the political nature of the footage in their rejection.
Local Laws and Policies
Charlotte Douglas International Airport stated that North Carolina regulations and their own policies prevent the display of the controversial video. They clarified that TSA does not control monitors at checkpoints, which are reserved for essential travel information.
Westchester County officials labeled the video as “inappropriate” and a “politicization of the impacts of a federal government shutdown.” They criticized the tone of the messaging as alarmist and damaging to public trust.
Government Shutdown Context
The ongoing government shutdown continues to affect numerous federal operations, with many TSA employees working without pay. Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, has voiced similar concerns, attributing the situation to “political gamesmanship.”
The Port of Seattle expressed a commitment to supporting federal employees affected by the shutdown and encouraged bipartisan efforts to address the issue.
Overall, these actions by major airports reflect a significant push against the use of airport platforms for political content, emphasizing the need for neutrality in public service and the importance of adhering to legal frameworks like the Hatch Act.
