Senator Maria Cantwell Demands Investigation into DHS Secretary Kristi Noem for Hatch Act Violations

Strategic Insights -

US Senator Maria Cantwell has formally notified the Office of Special Counsel of her concerns regarding a partisan video message aired by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening locations across the country. The video, which blames Democrats in Congress for the government shutdown's impact on airport operations and TSA employees working without pay, appears to violate the prohibitions contained in the Hatch Act. Cantwell has urged the Office of Special Counsel to investigate this matter immediately, citing the independent agency's responsibility for enforcing the Hatch Act.

Key Takeaways:

  • The video message, featuring Secretary Noem, was aired at airports across the country, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Spokane International Airport, and Portland International Airport.
  • The message blames Democrats in Congress for the government shutdown's impact on airport operations and TSA employees working without pay.
  • The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from engaging in political activity while on duty or wearing official insignia identifying their office or position.
  • Multiple airports have refused to air the video due to its partisan content and potential Hatch Act violations.
  • Secretary Noem's video has been criticized for its misleading and partisan nature, omitting the fact that Republicans control the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives.
  • This incident is not the first time Trump Administration officials have disregarded the Hatch Act to place blame on Democrats for the government shutdown.

Statistics:

  • At least 7 airports, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Spokane International Airport, and Portland International Airport, have refused to air the video due to its partisan content.
  • The video was played at TSA screening locations across the country, potentially reaching millions of Americans.
  • The Hatch Act restricts federal executive branch employees, including Cabinet Secretaries, from engaging in "political activity" while on duty or wearing official insignia.

Sources:

  • Senator Maria Cantwell's letter to Acting Special Counsel Jamieson Greer, October 15, 2025.
  • News release from Senator Maria Cantwell's office, Washington, D.C.
  • Port of Seattle spokesperson, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
  • Port of Portland spokesperson, Portland International Airport.