United States: To get revenge on the shutdown that is blocking airports, a company attacks lawmakers.

While American airports are paralyzed by a mini “shut down”, airlines are getting annoyed and Delta Air Lines, one of the largest, has removed certain perks granted to lawmakers, such as escorts or baggage services. No budget, no favors. Delta has decided that parliamentarians – and their entourage – would be treated like any other passenger, based on each individual’s SkyMiles status.

Thousands of Americans on furlough Since February 14, DHS funding – including security checks at airports – has been frozen due to a deep disagreement between Democrats and Republicans in Congress over immigration police practices (ICE), which are highly contested on the left.

Because of this partial “shut down”, thousands of federal employees are on furlough, while thousands of others with functions considered essential continue to work. This is the case of Transport Security Agency (TSA) officials responsible for security checks, tens of thousands of whom have been working unpaid since March 13. Absenteeism and resignations have surged.

Long queues, sometimes lasting several hours, have formed at many airports to pass through security checks (cabin baggage and personal belongings scanning, metal detectors) and reach the boarding gate. Many passengers especially miss their flights as a result.

“In light of the impact on resources from the government’s long budgetary paralysis, Delta will temporarily suspend special services for Congressional members flying on Delta”, the company told AFP. According to Delta, it has become “extremely difficult in the current environment to take care of its teams and customers”.