Flying the Unfriendly Skies: Rep. Lee’s Mile-High Scrap
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee playing the race card regarding the airline-seat fiasco is a bridge too far. (“‘1st-class’ pol worst in flight,” Dec. 28).
Race was not a factor, and as an elected official she should know better. In fact, she should have declined the upgrade. David Berger Milwaukee, Wis.
Why was a congresswoman flying first class?
Some years ago, when I lived in New York, I had to fly to DC on a few occasions. I flew coach, and in the same section I saw then-Rep. Shirley Chisholm. And on another trip, I witnessed Sen. Hubert Humphrey flying coach.
I realize these trips took place a number of years ago, but have things changed so much? Who pays for representatives to fly first class? Susan Landsman Sherborn, Mass.
This is not about race; that’s just an excuse.
A Texas congressman who was seated next to Jean-Marie Simon after she was bumped from first class reportedly told her that Jackson Lee “regularly does this” to passengers. How many times has this happened?
As for the airline itself, the employees are at fault because they allowed this to happen.
I would also demand the frequent-flier miles back, plus money and an apology from the CEO of United. Christine Blasucci Manhattan
I’ve been hearing many stories of this obnoxious congresswoman for years.
Obviously, she feels very safe in her position and believes she is above all the rules of decency.
The people of Texas need to wake up and vote her out of office. She constantly throws down the race card when challenged.
There is no excuse for boorish behavior from Jackson Lee, no matter which party she belongs to. Richard Herman Valley Stream
Jackson Lee’s being given a first-class seat by United is one of many spectacles she has caused.
According to the Houston Chronicle, Jackson Lee was voted “biggest windbag” from 1998 to 2006 (except 2000, when the category was not in its assessment) .
She once said to an underling, “I am a queen, and I demand to be treated like a queen.” She has no manners and suffers delusions of grandeur. Manny Martin Manhattan