Major airports across the country, including New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta, are refusing to play a video featuring Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, blaming Democrats for the government shutdown. This decision is based on policies that prohibit the showing of political content and adherence to the Hatch Act, which restricts political activities of federal employees. The 30-second video, released by the DHS, highlights the impact of the shutdown on TSA employees, with over 61,000 working without pay. Noem emphasizes the TSA's commitment to passenger safety and efficiency, but also criticizes Democrats for refusing to fund the government, causing delays and financial strain on employees. Democrats counter that Republicans bear responsibility for the shutdown, citing negotiations over healthcare premiums. Airports like LaGuardia, Newark Liberty, and Chicago O'Hare have declined to show the video, citing policies against political messaging and legal restrictions. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Portland International Airport in Oregon have explicitly stated their refusal, citing the Hatch Act and state laws. Some airports, like Akron-Canton, have designated screens for non-political content, further emphasizing the sensitivity surrounding political messaging in public spaces.
