Several airports across the country—including those in the Bay Area—are choosing not to broadcast a video message from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that places blame on Democrats for the ongoing federal government shutdown and its effects on TSA operations. The decision stems from airport policies that prohibit political messaging.

Airports in major cities such as Las Vegas, Charlotte, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Seattle have cited internal regulations against political content as the reason for refusing to air the video.

Locally, officials confirmed that San Francisco International Airport and Oakland International Airport are not showing the video. A spokesperson for San Jose Mineta International Airport said there was no need for additional messaging at this time, noting that operations remain unaffected. Should that change, the airport will use its own messaging to keep travelers informed.

The video, being distributed by the Department of Homeland Security, features Noem stating that the TSA’s primary mission is to ensure safe and efficient travel, but blames the shutdown on congressional Democrats. She claims many TSA employees are working without pay due to a lack of government funding.

Critics say the messaging could violate the Hatch Act, a federal law that restricts political activity by government employees. Some federal agencies have adopted similar partisan language in internal communications and online postings, raising further legal and ethical concerns.

The government shutdown has disrupted services, including at airports, while negotiations remain stalled. Democrats are pushing for health care provisions in any agreement to reopen the government, while Republicans insist no negotiations will proceed until a funding deal is reached. A failure to renew insurance subsidies by December 31 could lead to a spike in premiums.

A DHS spokesperson reiterated Noem’s points, expressing frustration with the political stalemate and urging Democrats to act.

Airports have defended their decisions to stay neutral. Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas cited Hatch Act limitations and airport policy against political or religious advocacy. Westchester County officials in New York labeled the video as “inappropriate and alarmist,” arguing it undermines public trust and distracts from more pressing issues.

Even in traditionally conservative states, airports opted out. Salt Lake City International Airport declined due to a state law barring political use of public property. In Billings, Montana, airport officials said they “politely declined” to show the video, preferring to avoid political involvement altogether.

“We want to stay neutral,” said Billings assistant aviation director Paul Khera. “We didn’t want to be part of the political debate.”