Trump: All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work NOW!!!

US President Donald Trump on Monday issued a forceful directive for all air traffic controllers to return to work immediately, despite the fact they are not receiving pay during the ongoing federal government shutdown.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, "All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn’t will be substantially 'docked.' For those Air Traffic Controllers who were GREAT PATRIOTS, and didn’t take ANY TIME OFF for the 'Democrat Shutdown Hoax,' I will be recommending a BONUS of USD 10,000 per person for distinguished service to our Country."

Trump criticized controllers who have taken time off during the shutdown, writing, "For those that did nothing but complain, and took time off, even though everyone knew they would be paid, IN FULL, shortly into the future, I am NOT HAPPY WITH YOU. You didn’t step up to help the USA. against the FAKE DEMOCRAT ATTACK that was only meant to hurt our Country."

He went further, warning that employees who refuse to return to work could leave without severance or payment, adding, "You will be quickly replaced by true Patriots, who will do a better job on the Brand New State of the Art Equipment, the best in the World, that we are in the process of ordering."

Trump concluded his statement by reiterating support for those who return to work, while insisting others must comply immediately.

"Again, to our great American Patriots, GOD BLESS YOU - I won’t be able to send your money fast enough! To all others, REPORT TO WORK IMMEDIATELY. GOD BLESS AMERICA! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP."