Trump Threatens Air Traffic Controllers Over Shutdown Absences

Published 4 hours ago

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Above: A Delta plane takes off near an air traffic control tower at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Nov. 7, 2025. Image copyright: Elijah Nouvelage/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The Spin

Republican narrative

Air traffic controllers abandoned their posts during a Democrat-induced shutdown designed to hurt America. These federal workers chose partisan politics over duty, leaving travelers stranded even as they knew full well they'd receive back pay. Patriots who stayed deserve $10,000 bonuses for distinguished service.

Daily Mail Breitbart

Democratic narrative

Air traffic controllers working without pay for 40 days face impossible choices between feeding families and showing up to high-stress jobs. Trump's attacks on these essential workers ignore the real economic hardship, causing increased retirements and absences that threaten aviation safety.

Axios Politico