Donald Trump has teased ex-Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for cycling with his husband seated behind him.
The president criticized Buttigieg as he attempted to divert attention from the airspace turmoil affecting Newark International Airport, which was triggered by technological problems.
When questioned about his investigation into new software, Trump asserted that he was "fully prepared to launch a cutting-edge air traffic control system" before leaving office, with Buttigieg taking charge of the Transportation Department.
'Buttigieg, who isn’t aware of such things, rides his bike to work every day, quite fairly, with his husband sitting behind him, showcasing their lovely partnership,' the president quipped.
This fellow had no idea what he was doing, even though he’s a serious candidate for president. You could choose either him or Crockett; neither of them knows what they’re doing anyway.
Buttigieg is apparently considering a bid for the presidency in 2028. This might place him directly at odds with the president, who has indicated a wish to attempt securing an unconstitutional third term.
He is passionate about cycling and often rode his bike to and from work in Washington DC when he was serving in office.
Buttigieg has been seen riding bicycles obtained from rental services like Lime and Bike Share, and he also once participated in an Ironman competition.
It remains uncertain if husband Chasten Buttigieg accompanies him during these trips.
After blaming the Biden administration for the problems at Newark, where numerous flights have been disrupted in recent weeks, Trump made these comments.
'The air traffic issues stem from the ineptitude of the Biden Administration, led by an inexperienced and politically biased individual, Pete B.,' he posted on Truth Social. 'I WILL SORT THIS OUT!!!'
As of now, Transport Secretary Sean Duffy is finding it challenging to gain control over the circumstances.
Nevertheless, on Thursday, his division suggested significant reforms for the U.S. air traffic control system following recent fatal aviation accidents and technological glitches that highlighted issues with the antiquated infrastructure.
The proposal includes establishing six new air traffic control hubs, as well as enhancing technological and communication systems across all of the country’s aviation management sites within the upcoming three-year period, stated Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
Duffy stated in his pre-prepared comments that decades of disregard have resulted in an antiquated system which has seen better days. He emphasized that constructing this updated framework is both an economic and national security imperative, stressing that the moment to address this issue is immediate.
The Trump administration aims to introduce fiber, wireless, and satellite technology across over 4,600 sites, swap out 600 radars, and enhance the count of airports equipped with systems meant to decrease close calls on runways.
Under this proposal, six additional air traffic control hubs would be constructed, alongside standardizing new equipment and technology across every air traffic facility.
The plan features a tight schedule, aiming for completion of all tasks by 2028. Cost specifics have not yet been disclosed at this point.
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