Surveillance and Misconduct by the TSA Uncovered

In a provocative move, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) secretly compiled a watchlist during 2021 targeting individuals vocal against President Joe Biden’s COVID mask mandates. This covert program, dubbed “Operation Freedom to Breathe,” led to dozens being barred from flying or subjected to intrusive groping during screenings. The program ceased when a federal court invalidated the mask requirement in April 2022.

Protestors rally against mask mandates — TSA targeted opponents of mask mandates, like these protesters.

Recently, revelations surfaced about the TSA’s extensive surveillance state. Congress exposed that hundreds of Americans were flagged through secret programs, including lists based on questionable databases and criteria such as “suspected” extremism or mere proximity to protests. Senator Rand Paul disclosed that the TSA included individuals suspected of traveling to Washington, D.C., on suspicion of involvement in the Capitol riot, relying on dubious sources.

Senator Rand Paul during a hearing — Senator Rand Paul exposed the scope of TSA surveillance activities.

The “Quiet Skies” program exemplifies this overreach, spent over $200 million annually to secretly monitor travelers on flimsy excuses. It targeted individuals based on minor behaviors or even their notoriety, which could include critics or journalists. This program was abruptly terminated last year, after targeting figures like former Representative Tulsi Gabbard for criticizing political figures.

Authorities and critics agree that such practices violate basic rights, with DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accusing the TSA of using surveillance for political gain. Despite some reforms—like removing shoe removal at security checkpoints—many invasive procedures remain unchanged. The TSA’s screening measures have repeatedly failed, detecting less than 20% of fake threats in undercover tests.

As debates about privacy and security intensify, many argue that the only solution is privatizing airport screening to prevent political weaponization and protect citizens’ liberties.

James Bovard, author of multiple books on liberties, emphasizes the need for reform and transparency in airport security practices.