President Donald Trump’s nominee to head the Transportation Security Administration presented his views on private airport screening operations during a Senate confirmation hearing. David Cummins, a former Serco executive, argued that expanding the Screening Partnership Program would not harm TSA employees and characterized the existing private screening initiative as beneficial to workers.
Cummins’ nomination comes as the TSA faces operational challenges following a recent extended government funding lapse. The partial shutdown resulted in TSA employees working without pay for extended periods, leading to widespread callouts and approximately 1,100 resignations. These staffing disruptions contributed to extended wait times at some U.S. airports. The agency, which oversees security operations at more than 440 airports with roughly 60,000 employees, was created following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to centralize passenger screening under federal authority.
Democratic lawmakers and the union representing TSA officers have expressed concerns that expanding private screening operations could effectively privatize a core government security function and potentially weaken the federal workforce. In response, Cummins rejected the characterization that private screening represents anti-worker policy, noting that airports using private contractors maintained employee pay during past funding lapses. He also stated that existing TSA employees would receive first consideration for screening positions at airports transitioning to private operations and indicated support for legislation guaranteeing TSA employee compensation during future funding gaps.
Cummins acknowledged broader challenges affecting the agency, including the politicized environment surrounding aviation security. When questioned about potential removals of Customs and Border Protection officers from certain airports, he stated he had not been briefed on near-term plans but recognized that political considerations can affect security operations. If confirmed, he said his initial priority would involve visiting airports to reassure employees of his commitment to supporting the workforce.
Originally reported by AP News. Read the full story →