Radicals in Congress Are Holding Aviation Safety Hostage to Fund Illegal Alien Healthcare

Washington, D.C.—Today, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) issued the following statement from Congressman Mike Garcia (CA-27), Chairman of America First California, regarding the ongoing government shutdown:

“While radicals in Congress continue the government shutdown, critical aviation operations are being disrupted nationwide. Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents are being forced to work without immediate pay—placing enormous strain on those responsible for keeping Americans safe in the skies and at airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the busiest in the country.

These men and women are the backbone of our aviation safety system. They ensure that flights operate smoothly, passengers are properly screened, and the traveling public remains secure. Yet, instead of paying these essential workers, bad actors in Congress are holding the system hostage to push taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal aliens.

Air travel delays, overworked staff, and increased safety risks are the direct result of misplaced priorities in Washington. These radicals in Congress must end this shutdown, pay these men and women what they’ve earned, and put the safety of the American people ahead of political games.”