Trump voiced strong complaints about air traffic controllers who did not report to work during the government shutdown, calling them out on social media and publicly warning that those absences could be penalized. He also floated a potential $10,000 bonus for controllers who continued to work and did not take time off, while expressing uncertainty about financing such a payout. He characterized those who showed up as “GREAT PATRIOTS” and suggested that absent workers could be docked or replaced if they did not return. Key points you likely want:
- He criticized controllers who called out, especially during the shutdown, and demanded they return to work immediately.
- He proposed or suggested a $10,000 bonus for those who remained on duty or who did not take time off during the shutdown.
- He indicated the source of funding for any bonuses was unknown at the time, saying he would “find it from somewhere.”
- He threatened consequences for absent workers, including docking pay or replacement with others.
If you’d like, I can compile a concise timeline of his statements across different outlets, or verify the latest developments and whether any policy changes or back pay arrangements were finalized after these remarks.
