Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy: We could see more disruption to air travel due to shutdown
CNBC Television·2025-10-20 13:02

Government Shutdown Impact - The government shutdown has reached its 20th day, causing air traffic controllers to work without pay, potentially leading to increased disruptions as they seek alternative income sources [1] - The Transportation Secretary acknowledges potential disruptions to air travel due to air traffic controllers taking sick leave or seeking other employment, emphasizing the consequences of a prolonged shutdown [1] - The speaker suggests that public dissatisfaction with the government shutdown will eventually pressure Democrats to negotiate and reopen the government [2] Air Traffic Controller Workforce - The department has the ability to address air traffic controllers who consistently fail to show up for work, but emphasizes the need for more controllers, currently being 2,000 to 3,000 short [2] - The department aims to maintain a dedicated and high-quality air traffic control workforce, addressing issues of absenteeism [2] Transportation Safety Regulations - The department is enforcing a long-standing rule requiring truck drivers to be proficient in English, citing safety concerns related to reading road signs and communicating with law enforcement [5][6] - California is the only state not complying with the English proficiency rule for truck drivers, leading to the withholding of $40 million in funds [6][9] - California has issued commercial driver's licenses (CDL) to individuals who are not lawfully present in the US or whose work permits have expired, raising concerns about road safety [9] NASA and Space Exploration - NASA is refocusing on human space exploration, with less emphasis on climate crisis initiatives [11] - Artemis 2 is scheduled to go to the moon and back in early 2025, marking the first time in 54 years [11][12] - The department will open up the Artemis 3 contract to competition between SpaceX and other companies like Blue Origin, aiming to accelerate the return to the moon and win the space race against China [13][14]