I actually think that the TSA could make major strides with a few simple steps. They've been stated on this board in several ways, but let's see if I can boil it down.

1. Registered traveler. Just like Global Entry. Or--better yet--just use the extant Global Entry system. If you have a GE sticker, you have a quicker line with less hassle. It's a common sense measure, and the TSA looks foolish because they still can't seem to get this together.

2. Whole-body x-ray as secondary search only. MMW as primary only if it's a stick figure system. There is no need to see a naked image of every flying passenger. There are serious questions about safety, ethics, and costs. It's time for the TSA to be honest and acknowledge that maybe this really isn't the best aproach.

3. End the war on liquids. The plastic bags are of no use from a counterterrorism perspective, and this wastes everyone's time. The liquid rules distract screeners, slow down the lines, and are of highly questionable scientific merit.

4. Likewise for shoe removal. Everyone agrees that it's a waste, but the TSA is too cowardly to reverse its rules. Perhaps it's fair to screen large, bulky boots. But taking the booties off of babies, removing flip flops, swabbing bare feet... all of the stories we read here... the TSA makes a mockery of itself.

5. No more gate screening. It's an obvious charade, it's humiliating, and it leads to delays. It showcases the TSA's incompetence while embarrassing passengers who have already been screened. The "stare downs" in particular seem to be for the entertainment of passengers rather than the protection of passengers, crew, or cargo.

6. Strict rules about barking. Things have been pretty tame lately in my experience. But it's inexcusable. The TSA and the IRS are most citizens' only interaction with the Federal Government. Any politician who wants to make an administration look good would be wise to ensure that TSA employees are unerringly polite, kind, professional, and organized. They are the face of the Fed, so they better mind their manners.

Just like everyone has said: the TSA needs to start focusing only on those passengers who present a threat. I know; easier said than done. But if ICE can do it, so can the TSA. They're part of the same branch of government; I'm sure they can figure this out.