Wow. I mean really WOW!

This is exactly why the TSA has gotten so bold. Because way too many people are unaware what "unalienable right" means. Unalienable rights, as used in the U.S. "Declaration of Independence" means rights that cannot be taken away, given away, or sold. LIBERTY is one of those rights.

Remember, "All it takes for tyranny to succeed is for good men to do nothing". Anyone who meekly goes along with "simply answer the question" is allowing tyranny to succeed. We have an "unalienable right" in the U.S. to LIBERTY. That means the TSA can't take it away from us. No one should have to answer the questions posed them by these agents.

I suppose I'm lucky. I've been through the process many times since the TSA started taking control and have only two "special" screenings, both times on one way flights, and have always been treated courteously. I've also left things in my carry-on I shouldn't have (my 3-1-1 stuff) and have never been hassled by TSA, only by other travelers who were inconvenienced by my forgetfulness.

But if I am ever treated like Mr. Bierfeldt was, I would react in exactly the same manner. I would refuse to answer questions that are NONE OF THEIR BUSINESS and immediately ask to have the situation escalated to the local LEO. The threats of the TSA take the guy "downtown" were meant to scare him. The fact that he was willing, and anxious to do that threw them off guard. Good for him. I hope the publicity will force someone at TSA to make sure that clowns like these are fired to discourage other clowns from trying the same thing.

amanuensis, the meek may inherit the earth. But that will be on Judgement Day. Until then the meek will be abused by some of those with authority, real or imagined, unless someone stands up and calls them to account. Fortunately we had someone like that in the person of Steve Bierfeldt.