Port of Seattle and Portland Airports Decline to Air Video Blaming Democrats for Government Shutdown
The Port of Seattle has decided not to air a video at TSA checkpoints featuring Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for the government shutdown. Noem's message in the video highlights the impact of the shutdown on operations and urges Democrats to fund the federal government. The shutdown, which began on Oct. 1, has affected airport operations and TSA pay.
A Port of Seattle spokesperson stated that the video will not be shown at SEA airport due to its political nature. The Port continues to advocate for bipartisan efforts to end the shutdown and is exploring ways to support federal employees working without pay at SEA during this time.
Similarly, Portland's airport has also chosen not to air the video, citing concerns that it may violate the Hatch Act, which restricts political activities of federal employees. The airport spokesperson emphasized that using public assets for political messaging goes against the Hatch Act and Oregon law, which prohibits public employees from promoting or opposing political affiliations.
The TSA has not provided any comments on the situation at this time. The decision by both airports to refrain from airing the video reflects their commitment to maintaining a non-political environment and supporting federal employees affected by the government shutdown.
In conclusion, the Port of Seattle and Portland's airport have opted not to show a video featuring Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for the government shutdown at TSA checkpoints. Both airports are focused on bipartisan efforts to end the shutdown and provide support to federal employees impacted by the ongoing situation.