Air traffic controller Jack Criss is now clearing takeoffs and takeout orders. The single dad took on a side gig as a DoorDash delivery driver during the second-longest government shutdown in modern history in order to make some extra cash and cover his daughter’s high school tuition.

For the past few weeks, air traffic controllers have been receiving partial pay – but next week, they’re expected to miss their first full paychecks as the funding lapse continues.

“It’s been incredibly difficult. You can feel the tension, and it’s heavy…and it hurts,” Criss said in an interview that aired on “CBS Saturday Mornings.”

As the government shutdown rolls into Day 25, Congress remains unable to strike a deal. The Senate failed to advance measuresThursday that would pay federal employees like Criss.

  • notfromhere@lemmy.ml
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    6 hours ago

    If they strike during a shutdown, what’s stopping them from bringing in private companies to replace the ATC workers? They’re literally taking money from billionaires to pay for some military shit and nothing is stopping them. I mean we’re so cooked.

    • Tollana1234567@lemmy.today
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      2 hours ago

      good luck with that, where are they going to find ATCs in the wild. most of the pipeline is from government funded program from specific colleges/instituitions. its also super competitive too.

    • vale@sh.itjust.works
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      6 hours ago

      that’s essentially what Regan did back in the early 80s. used military controllers to replace the fired ones, decertified and dissolved the existing union. regardless of what the media and Duffy and the rest of the admin says, ATC are ultimately expendable in their eyes, even if it’s too the detriment of everyone.