Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy delivered an unconventional piece of travel advice to CNN’s Jake Tapper on Wednesday, suggesting the host’s daughter call Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to “open up the government” and prevent further flight delays caused by the ongoing shutdown.
During an appearance on “The Lead,” Tapper asked Duffy how his daughter, who is expected to fly home soon, and other travelers could prepare for potential travel disruption. Duffy’s response was sharp and placed the blame squarely on Senate Democrats.
“Well, I think the answer to that is give her Chuck Schumer’s number and say, ‘Chuck, when are you going to open up the government? When are you going to deliver the votes necessary to open up the government?” Duffy stated.
The government shut down on September 30 after the GOP-led spending bill failed to pass in the Senate with the necessary 60 votes, with Schumer leading most Democrats in opposition.
Since the shutdown began, reports have surfaced of flight delays across the U.S. due to critical airport staffing shortages, with air traffic controllers working without pay. Airports in Las Vegas, Houston, and Denver have already experienced delays.
Duffy noted the inconsistent nature of the disruptions: “We’re not seeing consistency in facilities across the airspace… The delays might happen, whether it’s an hour or two hours, and a staffing shortage, then they come back online.”
He emphasized the need to end the political impasse, urging Democrats to “open up the government” so negotiations can resume. “It was the Democrats in the Senate who voted for a shutdown… Don’t take America hostage,” Duffy said, echoing a post he made on X (formerly Twitter).
Democrats, however, maintain they blocked the spending bill because the GOP refused to negotiate on concerns over Americans’ access to health care. The vote on the bill failed 55-45.
RELATED: Confrontation On Capitol Hill: Lawler And Jeffries Clash Over Government Shutdown Standoff
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