Democratic Socialists of America Target NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy
The progressive group criticizes the lone Democratic agency head in the Trump administration for alleged ties to Republican lawmakers.
Members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are reportedly targeting Jennifer Homendy, the Chairwoman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the sole Democrat serving as an agency head under the Trump administration. The group is expressing frustration over Homendy's alleged closeness with Republican lawmakers during the critical midterm election season.
During an October 19 virtual meeting of the DSA's electoral commission, attendees discussed Homendy's interactions with Republican politicians. Sources indicated that this discussion, which also touched upon key Senate races in Alaska and Texas, caused irritation among some congressional Democrats. One Democratic insider expressed concern that the "extremists" aim to place only DSA members in government roles.
Homendy, a Connecticut native, has held positions on the NTSB since 2018, having been appointed by both Republican President Trump and Democratic President Joe Biden. Many observers believe she maintains bipartisan respect as an investigator focused on transportation safety rather than partisan politics.
However, the DSA's criticisms include specific instances: Homendy's response to the January 29, 2025, midair collision of a jet and military helicopter over the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport, where she did not attribute blame to the Trump administration; her appearance with Alaska Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan at an aviation safety summit in July, amid Sullivan's close reelection race against Democrat Mary Peltola; and her reported friendly relationship with Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz. The group also suggested Homendy has supported Republican members of the House, such as Wisconsin Rep. Derrick Van Orden.
A Democratic insider speculated that the DSA's efforts to scrutinize Democrats with Republican connections might expand in 2027. Homendy declined to comment on the matter, and a DSA representative stated the group was investigating the situation.
The DSA has seen increasing influence, notably with Zohran Mamdani, a member of the group, winning the New York City mayoralty. Additionally, DSA candidates have secured more congressional primary victories, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a democratic socialist, is reportedly considering a run for higher office in 2028.