A routine flight from Phoenix to Washington, D.C., turned chaotic when a passenger confronted a group of congressmen mid-air, forcing an emergency diversion.
The American Airlines flight carried three Arizona Republicans – Reps. Andy Biggs, Paul Gosar, and Eli Crane – along with Democratic Rep. Greg Stanton. The incident unfolded roughly two hours into the flight, ultimately requiring a landing at Kansas City International Airport, according to FlightAware.
“Sorry folks,” the woman said as she was removed from the plane. “We live in a fascist state.”
Law enforcement met the aircraft upon landing and escorted the woman off peacefully. “Law enforcement met the flight and removed the customer, and the flight later re-departed for DCA, where it landed normally,” an airline representative told local media. “We thank our customers for their patience and our crew members for their professionalism.”
The disruption did not result in any injuries, but the encounter clearly left an impression on those aboard. Stanton took the moment to jab at his Republican colleagues as the lawmakers returned to Washington to vote on a continuing resolution aimed at ending the government shutdown.
“Flying to DC rn to vote no on CR that fails to lower health care costs,” Stanton posted on X. “@RepEliCrane, @RepAndyBiggsAZ & @RepGosar all on this flight. We’re making emergency stop in Kansas City to remove disruptive passenger. None of my colleagues is the disruptor. Freedom Caucus losing its mojo.”
The confrontation highlights the increasing tensions between lawmakers and the public, with passengers willing to confront elected officials directly over national policy frustrations. While no one was harmed, the emergency landing served as a stark reminder of how political divisions are spilling over into everyday life—even 30,000 feet in the air. (Watch the aftermath of the confrontation below).
If you’d like to hear her parting words… pic.twitter.com/ZtXAWKEEYn
— Adam Burtner (@Adam_Burtner) November 12, 2025
