Lloyd Doggett, a U.S. Congressman representing Texas’ 37th district since 1995, shared his concerns on social media regarding recent developments in air traffic safety and legislative priorities. Born in Austin, Texas, Doggett has been active in public service for decades, previously serving in the Texas Senate from 1973 to 1985.
On May 8, 2025, Doggett criticized the Trump administration’s decision to dismiss an independent panel tasked with investigating aircraft near misses and other air traffic control failures. He highlighted a specific incident in Austin as part of this broader issue. According to Doggett, “An independent panel charged with investigating aircraft near misses, like we have had in Austin, and other air traffic control failures was summarily dismissed by the Trump administration without explanation.” He further stated that “Air safety is hardly a Trump priority.”
Later that day, Doggett expressed dissatisfaction with the House Republicans’ legislative focus. He remarked on their lack of attention to pressing family issues by pointing out that the only bill voted on was one concerning the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico. In his words: “House Republicans are so unserious and out of touch with problems the average family faces that the ONLY bill we voted on today is one to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico.” He sarcastically suggested naming it “Gulf of Just Two Dolls Instead.”
In another post from May 8th, Doggett addressed staffing shortages at Austin’s airport. He noted that current air traffic controller staffing levels are under 50%, making it one of the most severe shortages nationwide. Criticizing federal response plans under former President Trump’s administration, he wrote: “With current air traffic controller staffing at our airport under 50%, Austin has one of the most severe shortages in the country.” Doggett urged for better prioritization by stating that “The Trump Admin’s new plan fails to adequately deliver for our region.”
Lloyd Doggett graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BA in 1967 and earned a JD from there in 1970. Now aged 76, he continues to reside in his hometown of Austin.
