San Antonio Standard

Lloyd Doggett, a long-serving member of the U.S. Congress representing Texas’ 37th district, has been vocal on various issues through his recent tweets. Doggett, who has served in Congress since 1995 after replacing J.J. Pickle and previously held a position in the Texas Senate from 1973 to 1985, is known for his engagement with local and national matters.

On December 11, 2024, Doggett expressed concerns about staffing at Austin's air traffic control tower. In a tweet, he criticized the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for shifting blame regarding travel delays and highlighted that despite his calls for increased staffing over the past year, "our control tower has less staff, not more." He urged the FAA to prioritize safety measures in Austin. "While the FAA shifts blame for unnecessary travel delays, the reality is in the +1 year that I've demanded more air traffic controllers in Austin, our control tower has less staff, not more. It's past time for the FAA to do its job and prioritize Austin for more safety measures."

Later that day, Doggett met with Brumley Scholars from the University of Texas at Austin to discuss pressing global issues. He commended these students' commitment to research and civic engagement with his tweet: "Pleased to meet with @UTAustin Brumley Scholars to discuss global human rights, climate, and tax issues. What starts here changes the world--these students are engaged in thoughtful research and civic engagement."

On December 12, 2024, Doggett again addressed concerns regarding air traffic controller staffing levels at Austin airport. He pointed out discrepancies between reported numbers by the FAA and actual staffing situations. His determination was evident as he reiterated his commitment to ensuring better safety margins: "The FAA cites outdated staffing numbers...claiming 33 are staffing AUS. For over a year, I've pressed for more action..."