PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A new video showing Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for the federal government shutdown will play at airports across the country — but not at PDX.
As first reported by Fox News, the video is intended to play at all airports where it can be seen by travelers as well as employees of the Transportation Security Administration, which Noem oversees.
“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,” Secretary Noem said in the video.
“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.”
Portland International Airport, however, will not be airing the message.
A spokesperson for the Port of Portland confirmed to KOIN 6 News on Friday that they had received a TSA request to display Secretary Noem’s video regarding the current federal government shutdown. However, they did not consent to playing it.
“We believe the Hatch Act clearly prohibits use of public assets for political purposes and messaging,” a spokesperson said.
“Additionally, Oregon law states no public employee can promote or oppose any political committee, party, or affiliation. We believe consenting to playing this video on Port assets would violate Oregon law.”
As KOIN 6 News previously reported, the U.S. Forest Service has also posted messaging on its website blaming Democrats for the government shutdown and its impacts.
The TSA did not respond to an email request for comment by deadline. This story will be updated if they reply.
Amanda Rhoades
Source link