Trump Promises $10K Bonus to Air Traffic Controllers Who Didn't Strike During Shutdown

President's Reaction to Air Traffic Controller Absences

• 😠 President Trump expressed strong dissatisfaction with air traffic controllers who called in sick as a protest during the government shutdown.
• 📢 He announced via True Social that he would give a $10,000 bonus to those who remained on duty and did not call out sick.
• 💸 Conversely, he indicated a desire to dock the pay of those who took time off and complained.

Proposed Bonus and Pay Docking

• 🗣️ In an interview with Fox News, Trump reiterated his plan, stating he was unhappy with employees leaving their jobs.
• 💰 He emphasized that he would be sending a $10,000 bonus to the controllers who stayed.
• ❓ When questioned about the funding source for the bonuses, he responded, "I get it from someplace."

Challenges and Support for the Plan

• ⚠️ It is unclear if a mechanism exists for the president to legally penalize air traffic controllers by docking their pay.
• ❓ It is also difficult to determine the exact reasons for absence, distinguishing between genuine illness and protest.
• 👍 The Secretary of Transportation supports the president's stance and will work with Congress to explore ways to reward air traffic controllers who stayed on the job.