Dems Ridicule Bill Aimed at Abolishing TSA, Suggest 'Bin Laden' and 'the Ayatollah' Would Support It

In a fiery back-and-forth, two House Democrats took a swipe at Senator Mike Lee's proposed bill to abolish the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The Utah Republican had asked his followers on X (formerly Twitter), "Who supports my bill to abolish TSA?" The responses he received from his Democratic colleagues were nothing short of sharp-edged.

Representative Jared Moskowitz from Florida quipped, "Bin Laden," while his fellow Floridian, Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, added, "The Ayatollah, probably." Those zingers—delivered with full political force—landed right in the middle of a contentious debate.

The TSA, a post-9/11 creation, was established under the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001 to prevent similar tragic attacks. Its role is tightly intertwined with the nation's collective memory of that dark day. However, Lee, along with Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, introduced the "Abolish TSA Act of 2025" last week, calling for an overhaul of airport security.

The bill proposes shifting airport security screenings to private companies, overseen by a newly created Office of Aviation Security Oversight within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Lee argues that the TSA has become an intrusive and ineffective federal giant, saying, "The TSA has not only intruded into the privacy and personal space of most Americans, it has also repeatedly failed tests to find weapons and explosives." He believes privatization would allow for safer and less invasive travel experiences.

Under the measure, the Homeland Security secretary, in consultation with the Transportation secretary, would be required to submit detailed plans to Congress. These plans would outline how aviation security activities and equipment would be transitioned to private companies. Additionally, functions related to surface transportation, including mass transit and freight rail, would be transferred to the Department of Transportation.

Lee's proposal has sparked predictable political fireworks. While Republicans suggest the TSA has outlived its effectiveness, Democrats are voicing concerns about the potential risks of privatizing security. The colorful jabs from Moskowitz and Wasserman Schultz showcase Democrats’ skepticism, even mocking the idea as something enemies of the United States might endorse.

The debate underscores a larger question: Can airport security be both efficient and respectful of personal freedoms without compromising national safety? For now, the TSA remains firmly in place, but Lee's controversial bill ensures the issue will stay in the spotlight.