Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP) – Airports nationwide are declining to broadcast a video message from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, which attributes the ongoing federal government shutdown to Democrats, due to policies that prohibit political content.
Prominent airports in cities such as New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, Seattle, Phoenix, and Atlanta have refused to air the video, stating it breaches regulations against partisan messaging in public spaces. Additionally, smaller airports, including those in Salt Lake City, Billings, and Westchester County, New York, have also chosen not to participate.
The video, created by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), criticizes congressional Democrats for the effects of the shutdown on airport operations, particularly regarding TSA staffing. In her message, Noem asserts that the TSA is striving to maintain safe and efficient travel, but claims that “Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government,” resulting in disruptions.
Some officials and legal experts have indicated that the video may infringe upon the Hatch Act, which prohibits federal employees from engaging in political activities while on duty or utilizing government resources for partisan purposes.
Airport officials across the nation have voiced concerns regarding the tone and legality of the message. Many referenced policies that prohibit political or religious advocacy within airport terminals.
In Westchester County, New York, County Executive Ken Jenkins called the video “inappropriate” and said it undermines public trust. “This type of messaging only distracts from the real issues,” he said.
Even in conservative-leaning states, some airports refused to air the video. Salt Lake City International Airport cited state law barring political use of city-owned property. In Montana, Billings airport officials said they “politely declined,” preferring to remain neutral.
The Department of Homeland Security defended the video, with a spokesperson stating it reflects the difficult position the workforce is in due to “political gamesmanship.”
The government shutdown has resulted in flight delays and raised worries about prolonged disruptions if a funding agreement is not achieved. Democrats have tied any consensus to healthcare requirements, whereas Republicans maintain that funding needs to be secured first.
