Lawmakers Fight Interrupts Airlines
America’s skies are growing more turbulent — not from weather, but from Washington’s political dysfunction. The ongoing federal government shutdown is leaving TSA agents and air traffic controllers without pay, creating mounting flight delays at airports nationwide.
Union leaders now warn the situation could worsen in the days ahead as critical staff struggle to keep air travel safe and on schedule.
‘They’re Working Without Pay’ — Sununu Slams Washington Gridlock
Chris Sununu, former New Hampshire governor and now CEO of Airlines for America, blasted the political games in Washington during an interview with Newsmax.
“These TSA workers and air traffic controllers aren’t being paid a dime,” Sununu said. “They’re still showing up, doing their jobs, and trying to put food on the table for their families. God bless them for that.”
Sununu said the men and women ensuring flight safety don’t deserve to be used as “political linchpins” while D.C. politicians bicker.
Safety First — But Stress Rising
Sununu emphasized that flight safety remains the top priority, even as workers endure financial hardship.
“Secretary Duffy has made it clear — safety is everything,” he said. “That’s why we haven’t seen massive cancellations, even though there are some extended delays.”
He added that only a handful of airports have been hit with major slowdowns so far, calling it “remarkable” given the strain these unpaid professionals face.
Hardworking Americans Deserve Better
The longer the shutdown continues, the harder it becomes for TSA officers and controllers to stay afloat. Many are considering other jobs just to survive.
Across thousands of airports handling tens of thousands of daily flights, their dedication has kept the system running — for now. But patience is wearing thin.
“The real issue is simple,” Sununu concluded. “They’re not being paid. And Washington needs to fix that — fast.”
Bottom Line: Working Americans Are Paying the Price
As travel delays grow and paychecks vanish, Americans are once again seeing how Washington’s dysfunction hurts the very people who keep this country running.
These everyday heroes — from TSA agents to air traffic controllers — deserve more than political games. They deserve leadership.
