I think screener-less checkpoints with a real LEO standing at the end of the cattle chute would work just fine. Post-9/11, passengers learned THEY are the first line of defense, starting on 9/11 with United flt 93. All you'd need is a passenger-loading baggage x-ray machine with screens for all to see and a good 'ol fashioned metal detector. In such a setup, you better believe Joe Public would go screaming to the LEO if the metal detector went off or someone saw something screwy on the x-ray screens. This is a case where I think the random members of the public (including many who are well-versed on weapons and dangerous items) would probably easily beat the TSA's abysmal performance on detecting threats.

Remember, the TSA is *mandated by Congress* to spend money on new equipment every year, whether it's needed / wanted or not. There's a trail of failed machines (puffers, backscatter, x-ray machines etc.) which the TSA has pissed away money on over the years, so they have to come up with new ways to handled the mandated spend.

Also, remember, none of this will ever happen. The TSA drones are federal employees, unionized no less. The chances of reducing their numbers is nil.