Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy appeared on “Sunday Morning Futures” with host Maria Bartiromo, where he addressed the fallout from the government shutdown, particularly its impact on air travel. Duffy highlighted serious concerns regarding air traffic controllers and the repercussions of California issuing driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants.
During the interview, Duffy pointed out the immediate effects of the shutdown on workers. Bartiromo raised the question about the sick calls from Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and transportation employees. Duffy confirmed the troubling trend, explaining that many workers received notices of unpaid wages, resulting in a wave of absenteeism. “They get a big fat zero. No paycheck is coming on Tuesday,” Duffy stated bluntly. The gravity of the situation resonated through his words.
Duffy shared his observations after speaking with air traffic controllers, revealing how the shutdown weighs heavily on them. “These are people that oftentimes live paycheck to paycheck,” he noted, emphasizing the stress and pressure these professionals face. Controllers, who ensure safety in the skies, are feeling the strain. Duffy warned of increasing staffing shortages due to the financial uncertainty, leading to “more delays, more cancellations,” ultimately pushing American travelers to frustration with Democrats over the extended government inaction.
Bartiromo pressed Duffy for details about the staffing situation. He confirmed there is a noticeable increase in sick calls, reflecting a deeper issue at play. “We have more people calling in sick. More people not showing up for work,” he explained. Duffy’s message to the controllers was clear: “Show up, that’s your job.” Yet, he acknowledged the harsh reality many face: “There are real-life situations that they are dealing with, with their families.” The emphasis on the human element of government work is crucial here, as the controllers grapple with financial hardships.
A poignant moment in the discussion came when Duffy remarked on the gestures of support from the airlines during this difficult time. He recounted controllers celebrating meals provided by the airlines, yet he expressed concern, saying, “I don’t want air traffic controllers going to a food bank.” His commitment to these professionals was clear, stating, “We do have the best controllers. These are well-qualified professionals that keep our airspace safe.” Duffy’s respect for the workforce was evident, highlighting the importance of these individuals in the face of adversity.
Aside from the government shutdown, the conversation turned toward California’s decision to grant driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants. Duffy indicated that the federal government is ready to take action, threatening to withhold significant funding from the state due to their non-compliance with federal rules. “You say that you are threatening to strip California of the ability to issue commercial driver’s licenses,” Bartiromo remarked, to which Duffy confirmed the stakes: over 60,000 licenses have been illicitly issued to undocumented individuals.
“Gavin Newsom has thumbed his nose at us,” Duffy declared, sharply criticizing the California governor’s defiance. His promise of pulling “160 million dollars from California” reflects a serious attempt to enforce federal regulations and push back against state policies viewed as overreaches.
In summary, Secretary Duffy’s appearance on the program shed light on pressing issues in air travel and the intricate challenges that arise from political decisions. His firsthand accounts of air traffic controllers’ struggles and the repercussions of California’s actions paint a vivid picture of the current state of transportation in the U.S. The conversation underscored the interconnectedness of government actions and the lives of those it affects, reaffirming the importance of compliance with federal standards.
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