Sam Stein
Role at the time: Managing editor, The Bulwark, in a video commentary
Condemned
Response to this claim
Many airline pilots, flight attendants and air traffic controllers are part of the furry community.
“In all seriousness, this guy's running for governor of Alabama. He's trying to scapegoat people. … There's not a furry epidemic in our airplanes. Folks, get a grip.”
Read the original post (opens in a new tab)The Bulwark on X: Sam Stein reacts to Tuberville's furry remarks · The Bulwark2 min 8 s video; Stein's response at about 1:13-1:32, published Sept. 24, 2026, 00:16 UTC
Video posted by The Bulwark in which managing editor Sam Stein plays Senator Tuberville's floor remarks about airline workers and the furry community and responds to them.
Why we used this label
The reference point is Tuberville's claim that many airline pilots, flight attendants and air traffic controllers are furries and a flight-safety risk. Stein expressly rejects it, denying an "epidemic" and telling viewers to "get a grip". No milder label fits because he rejects the claim outright.