DHS, TSA refer alleged misuse of watch lists by former officials to Congress, Justice Department
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Tuesday that an internal investigation uncovered alleged abuses by former Transportation Security Administration (TSA) leaders, who are accused of misusing federal watch lists to target U.S. citizens. The matter has been referred to the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and to Congress for further review.
According to DHS, the actions occurred under former TSA Administrator David Pekoske during the Biden administration. Officials said individuals were placed on watch lists and denied boarding for refusing to comply with mask mandates on airplanes months after federal health authorities relaxed guidance.
“In an unprecedented act, the Biden TSA then used the January 6, 2021, protests as an excuse to target several dozen U.S. citizens,” the DHS statement said. “These Americans were watchlisted and harassed despite there being no evidence of wrongdoing or illegal behavior. This targeted campaign of harassment continued through June 2021 … despite no clear or immediate threat to aviation security.”
DHS further stated that some TSA personnel raised concerns at the time about privacy violations and political targeting, but those concerns “were ignored.”
The agency also pointed to findings that the TSA conducted unwarranted surveillance on now-Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard under the Quiet Skies program, while granting travel privileges to Bill Shaheen, the husband of U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), despite his traveling with a Known or Suspected Terrorist.
Under Secretary Noem’s direction, DHS and TSA said they have:
- Referred the matter to the Justice Department and Congress.
- Removed five senior TSA leaders from their positions, including the Executive Assistant Administrator for Operations Support and the Deputy Assistant Administrator for Intelligence and Analysis.
- Begun working with Congress on possible new legislative authorities to prevent future abuses.
- Updated internal policies and procedures to increase oversight.
- Reorganized TSA’s Intelligence & Analysis office to strengthen accountability.
Officials emphasized that while the TSA administrator has authority to restrict individuals from flying or place them under surveillance, those measures are legally intended to apply to threats such as dangerous criminals or terrorists.
“This includes the Executive Assistant Administrator for Operations Support and the Deputy Assistant Administrator for Intelligence and Analysis,” DHS said, adding that accountability measures are ongoing.
