The union representing air traffic controllers is continuing to advocate for an end to the ongoing federal shutdown — but it’s not specifically calling for a “clean” short-term spending bill as the American Federation of Government Employees is.
Speaking to reporters at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport early Tuesday, Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, would say only that his union wants the lapse in appropriations to “end today.”
“Whatever the means are, whatever the way that they get it done, that’s what the American people deserve, that’s what the flying public deserves and especially our air traffic controllers,” Daniels said in response to a question from POLITICO. “There is no other solution.”
Controllers are working without pay during the shutdown.
Context: AFGE’s Monday endorsement of a short-term funding patch known as a continuing resolution was a win for Republicans who have been pushing such a measure, and frayed Democrats’ coalition.
NATCA, which for the second time in two weeks is distributing leaflets at major U.S. airports urging Congress to end the shutdown, has consistently struck a nonpartisan tone in its recent messaging.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, meanwhile, has blamed Democrats for controllers working without pay.
What’s next: Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has introduced a bill to pay controllers and TSA baggage screeners during the shutdown, S. 3031, but it’s unclear if it will receive a floor vote.
More information about Republican leadership’s plans for the legislation is expected after Tuesday’s closed-door GOP caucus lunch.
