Here’s Why 2 Maine Airports Are Not Showing a New Department of Homeland Security Video

Dozens of airports across the nation are refusing the play a video featuring the Department of Homeland Security's Kristi Noem.

According to an article on the WCSH 6 website, both the Portland Jetport and Bangor International Airport are not playing the video, which features Kristi Noem discussing how the government shutdown has impacted air travel.

The government had asked that the video be played at TSA checkpoints, but on Tuesday, screens at the Portland International Jetport were either turned off or showing an older DHS video instead.

Jetport officials confirmed they’re not playing the new one.

They said the message was political and didn’t provide any actual guidance for travelers, like reminders about liquids, electronics, or Real ID requirements.  In their words, “This video was political in nature and did not address any operational guidance for customers.”

Airport officials say the main reason they are not playing the video is the fact that it blames Democrats for the ongoing government shutdown.

While we have not been able to find a video showing the full video, the following shows clips from the video:

They also pointed out that TSA has specific rules for what must be displayed under Transportation Security Regulations 1542.303 and 1542.305, and this request didn’t meet those standards.

According to the statement, the TSA had simply asked the Jetport to show the video voluntarily.

As we understand it, a similar scene is playing out at Bangor International Airport.

What is your opinion on this situation?  Let us know by sending us a message using our app.