Multiple airports across the United States are refusing to air a video featuring Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that attributes the ongoing government shutdown to Democratic lawmakers. The video, which warns about staffing shortages and potential changes to airport operations, has received backlash from officials who deem it politically charged and inappropriate for public spaces.
Airports including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Portland International Airport (PDX) have confirmed their decision to decline the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) request to broadcast the video. Officials cite concerns over the Hatch Act, which restricts the use of government resources for political purposes. A spokesperson from the Port of Portland stated, “We did not consent to playing the video in its current form… this would violate Oregon law.”
Similarly, the Port of Seattle indicated that the political nature of the content led to their decision. “We continue to urge bipartisan efforts to end the government shutdown,” a spokesperson said, emphasizing their commitment to supporting federal employees affected by the situation.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which manages JFK International Airport and LaGuardia Airport, also confirmed that its policies prohibit airing politically partisan messages. A representative stated, “Airports are not airing the video on airport-controlled screens.”
Other airports have echoed these sentiments. Buffalo Niagara International Airport and Niagara Falls International Airport both declined to show the video, referencing similar policies that restrict partisan messaging. The spokesperson for Westchester County Airport in New York described the video as “inappropriate, unacceptable, and inconsistent with the values we expect from our nation’s top public officials.”
In stark contrast, Boston Logan International Airport has not received a request to air the video, as there are no screens available at TSA checkpoints. Denver International Airport also confirmed they were not approached by the TSA regarding the video.
The controversy stems from the video’s content, which includes Noem blaming Democrats for the shutdown and its impact on TSA operations. “It is TSA’s top priority that you have the most pleasant and efficient airport experience as possible… However, Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government,” Noem states in the video. This tone has drawn criticism for being alarmist and politically charged.
According to DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, the aim of the video is to inform the public about the situation concerning TSA employees, many of whom are currently working without pay. McLaughlin stated, “It’s unfortunate our workforce has been put in this position due to political gamesmanship.”
Despite the administration’s efforts to communicate the implications of the shutdown, surveys indicate that public sentiment may be turning against the GOP, with more voters attributing blame for the shutdown to Republican lawmakers. Notably, many TSA employees and air traffic controllers continue to work without pay, prompting concerns about operational impacts, particularly as the holiday travel season approaches.
Travel industry analyst Jenry Harteveldt expressed grave concerns about the potential implications of a prolonged shutdown, stating, “The risk is growing by the day,” as it could severely disrupt travel plans, especially around major holidays like Thanksgiving.
As the situation evolves, the refusal of airports to air Noem’s video exemplifies the ongoing political tensions surrounding the government shutdown and highlights the importance of maintaining nonpartisan communication during critical times.
