Hold Johnson accountable for airport-security flaws

Los Angeles Times: Jeh Johnson, head of the Department of Homeland Security, owes an immediate explanation to Americans, many of whom are understandably baffled, worried and shocked by a report that leaked out of the Transportation Security Administration.

According to the report, undercover federal agents were able to sneak fake bombs past TSA screeners with apparent ease, despite the billions of dollars that the U.S. government spends on security and the cumbersome, time-consuming and invasive personal inspections it puts millions of travelers through each year.

In 67 out of 70 tests, secret DHS “Red Team” agents used insider knowledge and disguises to slip past body scanners and pat-downs, while, carrying weapons, mock bombs or other prohibited items.

95 percent failure rate

The TSA’s staggering 95 percent failure rate was attributed to both human and technological error. The dismal numbers were compounded by Johnson’s dismissive response. “The numbers in these reports never look good out of context,” Johnson said. However, he chose not to release the full report or add any context, saying the information was classified.

Maybe there’s some “context” that would make people feel better. Maybe all the tests were conducted at one airport, which travelers could try to avoid. Or maybe the Red Team agents exploited one kind of faulty equipment, which could be replaced. Instead of providing such information, however, Johnson offered this message to travelers: Don’t worry your little heads. We’re taking care of it. Continue to remove your shoes and belts, submit to body scans and keep your complaints to yourselves.

If Johnson does not come forth to address the Red Team revelations, Congress should call him in for a public accounting.