Multiple airports across the United States are refusing to broadcast a video featuring Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, which attributes the ongoing government shutdown to Democratic lawmakers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had requested that airports play the video, which warns of potential disruptions in airport operations due to staffing shortages and unpaid TSA workers.
Airports including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Portland International Airport, JFK International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport have declined to air the video. Officials cite concerns over the Hatch Act, which restricts the use of public resources for political purposes. A spokesperson for the Port of Portland stated, “We did not consent to playing the video in its current form, as we believe the Hatch Act clearly prohibits use of public assets for political messaging.”
The Port of Seattle also confirmed that it would not show the video due to its political content. A spokesperson emphasized that the airport continues to advocate for bipartisan efforts to end the shutdown and is exploring ways to support TSA employees affected by the situation.
Similarly, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees the operations of JFK and LaGuardia, stated that its policies prevent the airing of politically partisan messages at its facilities. Other airports, such as Buffalo Niagara International Airport and Niagara Falls International Airport, echoed these sentiments, citing regulations that prohibit partisan messaging in public spaces.
In a statement regarding the Westchester County Airport, County Executive Ken Jenkins described the video as “inappropriate” and “unacceptable.” He noted that the messaging does not align with the values expected from public officials and detracts from the focus on stability and preparedness during the shutdown. Jenkins added that the tone of the video is “unnecessarily alarmist.”
On the other hand, some airports have reported they were never asked to play the video. Boston Logan International Airport and Denver International Airport indicated that the TSA had not requested the video be shown at their facilities.
The TSA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) emphasized the urgency of the situation in their communications. In a statement, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin remarked, “It is TSA’s top priority to ensure that travelers have the most safe, pleasant, and efficient airport experience possible.”
The video features Noem stating, “Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government, and because of this, many of our operations are impacted, and most of our TSA employees are working without pay.” This message aligns with the broader narrative from the Trump administration that has frequently placed blame on Democrats regarding the shutdown.
While Noem’s video aims to inform the public, recent surveys suggest that more voters attribute blame for the shutdown to the Republican Party. As federal employees continue to work without pay, concerns are growing about the potential effects on airport operations and travel plans, particularly as the busy holiday season approaches.
Travel industry analyst Jenry Harteveldt expressed serious concerns that a prolonged shutdown could disrupt travel plans significantly. The situation remains fluid, and airports across the country are navigating the complexities of political messaging while prioritizing the safety and experience of travelers.