Government Shutdown Leaves Air Traffic Controllers Without a Paycheck: Duffy

Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy told “Fox & Friends” on Tuesday that air traffic controllers “don’t get any money” as a result of the ongoing 🏛️Government shutdown.

“The first day is hard, but the second day is even harder than that. And the third day. Because they have gas, they have childcare costs,” Duffy said.

According to Fox News, Duffy shared one controller’s personal story where he was unable to pay for his daughter’s travel expenses because he is no longer receiving a check.

“It’s tragic. But here’s what’s even worse. Democrats aren’t voting to open up the government,” he added.

Duffy stressed that Americans flying today remain safe, crediting controllers who are still showing up to work.

“You are safe to fly because these controllers come in, they’re the most amazing professionals. They do their job, they keep you safe. But again, I don’t want them driving DoorDash. I don’t want them going to the food bank. I want them focused on keeping you safe.”

The Senate is expected to consider a bill from Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, to ensure air traffic controllers receive pay during the shutdown. However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has not yet brought the bill forward, saying Republicans will “see what the temperature is of our senators” but reiterated the “easiest way” to pay federal workers is to reopen the government.

Democrats have pushed back, with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., arguing that incremental funding bills cannot give President