By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Several U.S. airports are declining to play a video message from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that blames Democrats for the federal government shutdown. Airport officials cited the Hatch Act and state laws prohibiting the use of public resources for political purposes as reasons for their decisions. The video, obtained by Fox News, aimed to inform travelers about potential impacts on TSA operations and employees working without pay due to the shutdown. Airports like Portland International, Seattle-Tacoma International, and Westchester County are among those refusing to air the message, citing its political nature.
Read the original article here
Portland, Sea-Tac, and Westchester airports are among a growing list of airports choosing not to display a video featuring Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, which, according to reports, blames Democrats for the federal government shutdown. This refusal highlights the complex legal and ethical considerations surrounding the use of public resources for political messaging, especially in the context of the Hatch Act.
The crux of the issue seems to be the Hatch Act, a federal law that restricts federal employees from engaging in political activities while on duty. The Port of Portland, which operates Portland International Airport (PDX), Hillsboro Airport, and Troutdale Airport, explicitly stated that they declined to display the video because they believe it violates the Hatch Act. They correctly recognized that using public assets like airport displays for political purposes is likely prohibited. This position is supported by those arguing against the video, many pointing out that the video is clearly propaganda and should be illegal.
It appears the video was intended to play in TSA security lines, with Noem using the opportunity to address travelers and make the case that Democrats were responsible for the government shutdown. However, many people are noting that the situation is far more nuanced, and it should be noted that Republicans have control of all three branches of government, and there appears to be little interest in a plan to unite the country. While the intentions of the video may have been to inform the public, the content was viewed by many as an attempt to politicize a federal agency and spread negativity.
The airports’ decisions to refuse the video show a commendable degree of independence and respect for the law. These airports are standing up for what they believe in, and are saying “no” when asked to do something potentially unlawful. It also seems that passengers would like to see it, and not hear it. Many people express relief at the airports’ actions, stating that they find seeing her face and hearing her message to be unwelcome, especially while trying to catch a flight.
The refusal of the video does not seem limited to just Portland and Sea-Tac, or even the Pacific Northwest. Reports confirm the video was not shown in Nashville and Denver. There are mentions of the video not appearing in Orlando, LAX, SFO, or Washington National airports.
One commenter shared that they had gone through airports in the last few days and did not encounter the video, adding that Noem “needs to be fired for the negative propaganda that is meant to further divide the country.” Another hoped the video wouldn’t be shown in Washington National. Others are asking if they can start a petition to play South Park clips instead.
Interestingly, the debate surrounding the video also touches on the broader issue of political accountability and transparency, with some suggesting the administration should be subject to impeachment. There’s a distinct sentiment that the video is misleading and potentially illegal.
The situation raises questions about the enforcement of the Hatch Act and the extent to which federal agencies can use public platforms to express political views. Some have said that the airports are privately owned. The law may apply, but there has been no news regarding prosecution.
Ultimately, the decision by airports like Portland, Sea-Tac, and Westchester to refuse to display the video underscores the ongoing tension between political messaging and the responsible use of public resources. It’s a complex issue with significant implications for airport operations and the public’s perception of government. The airports’ choices reflect an awareness of the legal restrictions and a commitment to avoiding partisan politics within their facilities. The situation is far from over, and many people are waiting for updates.