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Over the past week, things have not been going well for travelers. Many people had their Christmas plans messed up, due to terrible weather forcing flight groundings and delays.

To make matters worse, Southwest Airlines is having an even rougher time than other carriers. Some Southwest personnel have reported running into problems with systems crashing, being stranded in the wrong locations, etc.

What's happening with Southwest has spiraled so far beyond the pale that the Transporation Department is monitoring the situation. Though as problems pile up for travelers, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is now facing some criticism.

A closer look at the backlash against Buttigieg

What's happening this holiday season is not the first time that travel issues have come up on the watch of this administration. Therefore, some are questioning what the Transportation Department is doing to truly get ahold of these issues.

Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna stated that almost half a year ago, he and another progressive lawmaker asked Secretary Buttigieg to fine and penalize airlines when flight cancellations occur. 

Despite this recommendation, the Transportation Secretary did not follow through on it. Therefore, it is Khanna's view that had Buttigieg agreed to implement the aforementioned penalties and fees, Southwest's ongoing problems would not exist today.

Other progressives have opined that what's happenign with Southwest Airlines speaks to "incompetence."

Likewise, the Southwest CEO is being called upon to face the music for problems with his airline that surpass other carriers.

Many Democratic figures believe the Department of Transportation should penalize him for the chaos that travelers and airline workers are enduring.

Reaction from the Transportation Department

Amid rising backlash, the Department of Transportation remains adamant about the work it's doing. In a statement via a spokesperson, the Transportation Department claimed it has issued historic consumer protection fines to help folks in need.

Furthermore, the department maintains that Buttigieg pushed for airlines to offer better customer service when flight delays and cancellations impact travelers' plans.

Finally, the Transportation Department promised to hold Southwest "accountable" and issue fines if proof of legal breaches materalize.

Nevertheless, it is the view of many people that Buttigieg needs to take even stronger action in light of recent events.