US Airports Grounded While Congress Funds Global Mayhem
The Independent details how a government shutdown means air traffic controllers, working critical jobs, aren't getting paid, causing travel chaos nationwide. This, while US Congress routinely bypasses such 'budgetary concerns' when it comes to foreign military aid. For instance, in April 2024, Congress passed HR 8035, a bill providing $26.4 billion in aid to Israel, with nary a whisper of a
'shutdown' or 'workers going without pay' holding it up. ( HR 8035, Congress.gov ) It appears the American taxpayer's commitment to ensuring smooth air travel for its citizens pales in comparison to its unwavering dedication to bankrolling conflicts abroad. One might wonder why air traffic controllers don't simply rebrand as a foreign military faction; perhaps then their funding would be deemed
'essential' and immune to petty budget squabbles. It seems austerity is only for the services that benefit ordinary Americans, while unfettered spending is reserved for, well, other priorities.