Originally Posted by gre

Given that the usual choice at IAD is shoes off or secondary, i.e., no swab option, let me get this straight - I cannot be ordered to take my shoes off even in secondary?

I have specifically asked for the swab and been denied that option. I have been told that it was not my choice, i.e., not my decision to make. I have been told that if I go to secondary I will be ordered to take my shoes off, "if I want to fly today".