Senator Cantwell Calls for Investigation into DHS Secretary Noem's Alleged Violation of Federal Ethics Laws
Senator Maria Cantwell has called for a federal investigation into Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for allegedly violating federal ethics laws by airing a video message in airport security areas that promotes a partisan political message. The video features Noem blaming Democrats for the government shutdown and its impact on TSA employees and airport operations. Cantwell argues that the video likely violates the Hatch Act, which restricts political activity by federal employees. Several airports, including Seattle-Tacoma International, have refused to air the video due to its political nature. Cantwell's letter to the Office of Special Counsel urges an immediate investigation into the matter. The Department of Homeland Security and the Office of Special Counsel have not publicly responded to Cantwell's request as of now.