Originally Posted by
3Cforme
IMHO, you're focusing on the wrong element. It's not a question of HPN boarding being slow, nor few minutes above MCT at ORD or DCA, but whether the DCA or ORD connection you book happens to be AA's last flight of the day from DCA/ORD to your destination.
+1
Either way, check your luggage through to LAX and only take a personal item aboard. That way you don't have to wait at either location for valet luggage