Politics
Kristi Noem Airs Airport Video Slamming Democrats Over Shutdown Delays
By Jake Beardslee · October 10, 2025
New Airport Message Targets Shutdown
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem released a video, first obtained by Fox News, slated to play in public airports nationwide, criticizing Democrats for the ongoing federal government shutdown and warning travelers of potential disruptions. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY
Noem’s Direct Appeal to Travelers and Staff
In the clip, Noem—who oversees the Transportation Security Administration—says “most of our TSA employees are working without pay”, a message aimed at both TSA staff and passengers. She adds, “It is TSA's top priority to make sure that you have the most pleasant and efficient airport experience possible while we keep you safe.” Noem continues, “However, Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government, and because of this, many of our operations are impacted and most of our TSA employees are working without pay.” Jack Gruber-USA TODAY
Paychecks on the Line If Stalemate Persists
If the shutdown extends past two weeks, TSA employees will miss a paycheck. The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019 guarantees back pay after shutdowns, meaning employees should ultimately be made whole—but timing remains a concern for workers trying to meet immediate expenses. Jonathan Borba / Pexels
OMB Plan Fuels Backpay Anxiety
A plan reviewed and first reported by Axios could undercut the 2019 backpay guarantee by revoking backpay for furloughed workers, intensifying pressure on Democrats as President Donald Trump’s administration pushes for a funding deal. The memo outlining the proposal was later reportedly confirmed to POLITICO by anonymous administration officials in the White House and the Office of Management and Budget. René DeAnda / Unsplash
On-the-Ground Impact at Airports—For Now
As of Thursday, airport operations had not seen major slowdowns. Still, TSA sources warn that continued shutdown days could lead to more call-offs and longer checkpoint lines nationwide if uncertainty persists, according to Fox News Digital. JESHOOTS.COM / Unsplash
How We Got Here: Missed Deadline
The federal government shut down at midnight on Oct. 1 after the Senate failed to pass legislation that would have extended funding through Nov. 21, triggering widespread closures of federal services and facilities. Connor Gan / Unsplash
Senate Math and Failed Votes
Since the shutdown began, six Senate votes to fund the government have failed. Republicans hold a 53-seat majority, but 60 votes are required to clear a procedural hurdle for temporary funding. So far, only three Democrats have broken with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Schumer’s Take: Political Winds Shifting
Schumer told Punchbowl News that “every day gets better” for Democrats as the shutdown’s effects mount—from lost wages for federal workers to stalled SBA loans and halted federal services. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images