In a notable development, a Democratic representative has expressed support for the Trump administration's decision to curtail air traffic due to the ongoing government shutdown.
Representative Greg Stanton of Arizona emphasized the paramount importance of safety within the aviation sector, stating, "Safety must always be the highest priority" in a statement released Thursday evening.
According to Fox News, Stanton endorsed the decision made by Secretary Sean Duffy to scale back flights at the nation's 40 busiest airports, describing it as "the right call for the safety of the flying public." He further urged bipartisan cooperation, stating, "Now its critical that Republicans and Democrats get together and reach a bipartisan agreement on a plan to reduce health costs and end the shutdown."
Stanton concluded his remarks by asserting, "Arizona deserves better, and so do the hardworking professionals who keep our skies safe."
As the government shutdown stretches into its 38th day, efforts in the Senate to resolve the impasse have yet to yield a viable solution. The shutdown has resulted in the furlough of thousands of federal employees, while those deemed "essential," such as air traffic controllers and TSA officers, continue to work without pay. Many in this group have resorted to taking on additional jobs or calling in sick to manage their financial burdens.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, in conjunction with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has implemented a 4% reduction in air traffic across 40 major U.S. airports, effective Friday. This reduction is set to increase to 10% by November 14 if the shutdown persists. An emergency order from the FAA highlighted the necessity of this measure to "maintain the highest standards of safety" amid the staffing shortages caused by the shutdown. This directive impacts Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the largest airport in Stanton's district, which includes parts of Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa.
Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., where two primary airports are also affected by the reduction, Democratic leaders continue to demand that any funding agreement include an extension of COVID-19-era enhanced Obamacare subsidies, which are slated to expire at the year's end.
Republicans, however, have opposed the inclusion of partisan policy measures in a funding bill to resolve the shutdown. Notably, Stanton was among the House Democrats who voted against the GOP's funding proposal when it passed the House on September 19.
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