NE Missouri News

Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) criticized Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for what he described as using air traffic controllers as "political bargaining chips" during the ongoing government shutdown. At a press conference in Washington, D.C., Graves was joined by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA), Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN), House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-MI), and Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy.

Graves commended air traffic controllers for continuing to work without pay amid uncertainty over when they would receive their next paycheck. “They’re showing up for work, they’re doing the job, and they’re making sure that our skies stay safe,” said Graves. He added, “It’s unfortunate that he’s weaponizing the air traffic controllers,” referring to Senator Schumer, emphasizing that neither controllers nor their families should be used in political disputes.

Speaker Mike Johnson addressed reports that some air traffic controllers are seeking second jobs to support their families during the shutdown. “Air traffic controllers, some people call the policemen of our skies, they have been showing up at work without pay. And, news reports have suggested that these men and women are seeking outside employment just to keep their families afloat,” Johnson said.

Secretary Duffy assured travelers that flying remains safe despite the shutdown. He noted ongoing efforts to modernize the air traffic control system continue with funding provided by Congress but warned that seeing current staff go unpaid could discourage new recruits from joining or staying in training programs. “They’re thinking about leaving the [FAA] Academy, smart young men and women, because they don’t want to work for a system that won’t pay them,” Duffy stated.

Graves joined other Republican leaders in urging Senate Democrats to pass a continuing resolution—already approved by the House—to reopen government operations.

Sam Graves has represented Missouri’s 6th district in Congress since 2001 after serving previously in both chambers of Missouri's state legislature. Born in Tarkio, Missouri in 1963, he graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science degree and continues to reside in his hometown.