President Donald Trump issued a sharp ultimatum on Monday, demanding all air traffic controllers “must get back to work, NOW!!!” citing their failure to support the nation during a government shutdown. “Anyone who doesn’t will be substantially ‘docked,’” Trump stated on Truth Social, criticizing those who took time off despite knowing they would eventually receive full pay.

Trump singled out “great patriots” who remained at their posts, promising a $10,000 bonus for their service, while condemning others as “not happy” with those who “did nothing but complain.” He accused the controllers of failing to stand up against the “FAKE DEMOCRAT ATTACK,” claiming they undermined national interests. “You will have a negative mark… in my mind,” he said, adding that resigning workers would receive no compensation and be replaced by “true Patriots” equipped with new technology.

The remarks followed a Senate agreement to temporarily fund the government through January 30, including back pay for affected federal workers. However, air traffic controllers faced disruptions as some skipped shifts during the shutdown, leading to flight cancellations and delays. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised those who worked without pay, vowing to reward their “patriotism,” while union leaders noted an increase in retirements among controllers during the crisis.

Trump’s rhetoric highlighted tensions over federal workforce discipline, with critics arguing that the shutdown exacerbated staffing challenges. The Federal Aviation Administration reported 4% of flights canceled over the weekend, affecting over 10,000 passengers on November 9.