***DAY #8: SCHUMER SHUTDOWN*** Congressman Patronis: The Schumer Shutdown is Putting American Transportation at Risk

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jimmy Patronis issued a statement condemning Senate Democrats and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for forcing a government shutdown and jeopardizing the safety and efficiency of America’s air travel system. Congressman Patronis called on Senate Democrats to stop playing politics and to prioritize public safety, infrastructure, and national security by passing a clean Continuing Resolution (CR).

Congressman Jimmy Patronis said, “Chuck Schumer’s political wish list has brought our government to a standstill, and it’s putting the safety of America’s skies at risk. Our air traffic control system is already in crisis: it's understaffed, outdated, and long overdue for modernization. Now, thanks to this shutdown, TSA agents and air traffic controllers are working without pay, while critical upgrades are delayed. The consequences are real, such as longer flight delays and stalled infrastructure projects, which create risks to both travelers and the economy. Choosing far-left politics over public safety isn’t leadership, it’s reckless and dangerous. As a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I proudly supported President Trump’s $12 billion investment to modernize our air traffic systems, a vital step toward keeping Americans safe and our economy moving. But those improvements are now on hold because Senator Schumer is more focused on appeasing the radical left than doing what’s right for this country. It's time to put Americans first and end this shutdown.”

Air travel safety and infrastructure work impacted by the Schumer Shutdown:

• TSA agents and air traffic controllers are working without pay, increasing strain on an already fragile air system.
• I.T. modernization and safety upgrades are being delayed, halting efforts to modernize outdated infrastructure.
• Flight delays are increasing nationwide, disrupting travel for millions of Americans and damaging the economy.
• Airports and the traveling public are at risk, as critical operations suffer under political gameplay.

Congressman Patronis concluded, “The American people deserve safe skies and a functioning government, not political games from career politicians like Chuck Schumer, who has spent nearly half a century in Washington. It’s time to stop the games, pass a clean CR, and put the safety and prosperity of our citizens first. If you’re being affected by the Schumer Shutdown, I encourage you to call Senator Schumer’s office at (202) 224-6542.

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