Southwest Airlines is facing criticism after reports surfaced that one of its flight attendants posted comments on social media appearing to call for harm against President Donald Trump.
The controversy follows an incident involving a California man, Cole Allen, who entered the lobby of the Washington Hilton last Saturday night and opened fire during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Secret Service agents quickly intervened and apprehended him near the security screening area. He was taken into custody alive.
According to law enforcement, Allen stated after his arrest that he had intended to target members of the Trump administration, including the president.
SCOOP: Flight attendant for @SouthwestAir posted 8647 and allegedly posted “we need better assassins” following failed Trump assassination attempt
Would you feel safe on her plane?
Any comment @SouthwestAir? pic.twitter.com/G121M10Lqk
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) May 1, 2026
Attention then turned to social media posts made by Southwest flight attendant Meesh Carpino. In messages shared online during and after the incident, Carpino reacted strongly, expressing frustration that the attack had not succeeded. In one post, she wrote, “We need better assassins,” and in another earlier message, she stated, “One day we will wake up to his obituary.”
Carpino also shared the phrase “86 47,” which has drawn scrutiny in other contexts, and has made additional controversial remarks online, including criticizing supporters of the president and using profanity directed at immigration enforcement.
The posts prompted backlash from social media users, with some calling on Southwest Airlines to take disciplinary action. Critics have also suggested they would avoid flying with the airline if the matter is not addressed.
@SouthwestAir I have been flying you exclusively for business and personal travel for years. Were she to remain an employee of South west that would indicate you accept her as an ambassdor of your brand as is and tacitly approve of her reprobate behavior as acceptable. If that…
— CJ (@qbanjackson) May 1, 2026
She should be fired. @SouthwestAir this is not acceptable. She may be on her own time but she is a potential danger to passengers. No more Southwest flights for me.
— Common Sense Isn’t Common (@KibblesNBits) May 2, 2026
In a statement to the New York Post, a Southwest spokesperson acknowledged the situation, saying the company is aware of the posts and is reviewing the matter. The airline noted that the content does not reflect its values but declined to comment further on personnel issues.
The situation continues to draw attention as the airline evaluates its response.