Rep invites Delta to relocate to Ohio after Georgia official’s threat over break with NRA

Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) is inviting Delta Air Lines to relocate its corporate headquarters to Ohio after a Georgia official threatened to punish the airline for cutting ties with the National Rifle Association (NRA).

Hey @Delta — Northeast Ohio would make a great HQ if you’re put off by Mr. Cagle’s authoritarian tendencies. Quality of life, infrastructure, and wonderful communities. I’d love to show you around! https://t.co/7Fsh9g0yAD

— Congressman Tim Ryan (@RepTimRyan) February 27, 2018

In a letter to Delta’s CEO, Ryan applauded the airline for ending its relationship with the NRA and said he was disappointed by Georgia Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle’s (R) criticism of the decision, calling it “unmerited and entirely inappropriate.”

{mosads}Ryan went on to say that any state would be lucky to house Delta’s headquarters and 5,700 employees and urged the company to consider relocating to Ohio.

“In Northeast Ohio, we understand the importance of integrity, hard work, and earning your reputation,” Ryan said.

“That is why I urge you to consider Northeast Ohio — a leader in aeronautics, advanced manufacturing, and technical innovation — for your corporate headquarters. Given the lack of support from Georgia lawmakers, I encourage you to explore our region — one that better reflects your corporate character,” he added.

Delta recently joined a growing number of companies that have cut ties with the NRA in the wake of a mass shooting earlier this month at a Florida high school. 

Cagle then vowed to kill a lucrative tax break for the Atlanta-based carrier over its decision.

I will kill any tax legislation that benefits @Delta unless the company changes its position and fully reinstates its relationship with @NRA. Corporations cannot attack conservatives and expect us not to fight back.

— Casey Cagle (@CaseyCagle) February 26, 2018

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D) and New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) also invited Delta to relocate to their states after Cagle’s comments.

.@Delta, as one of your most frequent flyers, know that the NY LG admires your principled stance. Let’s continue our great relationship. NY is open for business & ❤’s Delta – move HQ to where you’re appreciated? https://t.co/AZ8xeC0geo

— Kathy Hochul (@LtGovHochulNY) February 26, 2018

Hey @delta—Virginia is for lovers and airline hubs. You’re welcome here any time. https://t.co/BxxnOhEpt6

— Ralph Northam (@GovernorVA) February 27, 2018