Airports Reject Homeland Security Secretary's Political Video Amid Government Shutdown

Wed Oct 15 2025 07:08:20 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Several airports across the United States are refusing to air a politically charged video from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, which blames Democrats for the ongoing federal government shutdown and its effects on TSA operations.

As the federal government shutdown continues, airports in cities like Las Vegas, Charlotte, and Atlanta are declining to broadcast a video from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The video attributes the impacts of the shutdown on TSA operations to Democratic lawmakers, which several airports argue violates policies against political messaging. The shutdown is causing disruptions in air travel, with TSA employees working without pay. Critics claim the video’s content could breach the Hatch Act, which limits political activity among federal employees.

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP) — Some airports around the country are refusing to play a video with a message from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in which she blames Democrats for the federal government shutdown and its impacts on TSA operations due to its political content.

Airports in Las Vegas, Charlotte, Atlanta, Phoenix, Seattle, and more assert that the video violates their regulations prohibiting political messaging in airport facilities.

Various government agencies have issued communication that attributes the shutdown to Democrats, leading to speculation that these statements may infringe upon the 1939 Hatch Act, which restricts certain political activities of federal employees.

The shutdown has disrupted TSA operations, causing serious challenges at many airports, as both travelers and TSA personnel face uncertainty over their operations and pay. Democrats have stated any reopening discussions must include provisions for healthcare, while Republicans claim they won't engage in negotiations until government funding is agreed upon. If Congress fails to renew healthcare subsidy payments due to expire on December 31, insurance premiums are set to double.

In her video, Noem emphasizes that TSA's “top priority” is efficiently managing travel and ensuring passenger safety. However, she highlights that, as a consequence of the government shutdown, many TSA employees are working without receiving pay.

The Department of Homeland Security plans to distribute the video to various airports, as TSA employees face the reality of continued operations during the shutdown with reduced resources.

A spokesperson from DHS stated, “It’s unfortunate our workforce has been put in this position due to political gamesmanship. Our hope is that Democrats will soon recognize the importance of opening the government.”

In response to the government's message, Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas emphasized awareness of the Hatch Act restrictions, stating, “The terminals and surrounding areas are not designated public forums.” In similar sentiments, officials from Westchester County remarked that the video was “inappropriate and unacceptable,” criticizing its tone as unnecessarily alarmist regarding airport operations.

“At a time when we should be focused on ensuring stability, collaboration, and preparedness, this type of messaging only distracts from the real issues and undermines public trust,” stated Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins.

Associated Press writer Rio Yamat in Las Vegas contributed to this report.