Homeland Security Ends Controversial Quiet Skies Program Amid Political Allegations
The Quiet Skies program, used for monitoring travelers, is discontinued by Homeland Security due to claims of political misuse and lack of effectiveness.
Trump DHS shutters Obama-era program that surveilled Americans
Washington Examiner
Overview
The Department of Homeland Security has announced the termination of the Quiet Skies program, which flagged travelers for extra screening. Secretary Kristi Noem cited its politicization and ineffectiveness, stating it failed to prevent any terrorist attacks while costing taxpayers $200 million annually. The program faced criticism for potentially targeting political opponents and lacking reliable criteria for identifying suspicious behavior. Noem has called for a Congressional investigation into its use under previous administrations. TSA will continue its essential security functions without the program.
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Analysis
- The article criticizes the Quiet Skies program for its ineffectiveness in preventing terrorism.
- Concerns about political misuse and discrimination are highlighted, raising accountability issues.
- Calls for investigations suggest a demand for transparency and reform in surveillance practices.
Articles (5)
"…DHS said the program 'was used to target political opponents and benefit political allies.'"
CNN·1M·"…The Department of Homeland Security is ending its controversial Quiet Skies surveillance program for airline travelers, saying June 5 that since its existence, it has 'failed to stop a single terrorist attack while costing U.S. taxpayers $200 million a year.'"
USA TODAY·1M·"…Noem also called on Congress to investigate how the program was used by administrations, possibly to track people for political reasons."
Washington Examiner·1M·"…The Trump administration will end the Transportation Security Administration's Quiet Skies program that monitors suspected terror threats in U.S. airports, the Department of Homeland Security announced this week."
Newsmax·1M·"…The 'Quiet Skies' program was established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as a way of ensuring higher-risk passengers, who may pose security risks, are more thoroughly searched before they board commercial aircraft."
Epoch Times·1M·FAQ
The Quiet Skies program was considered ineffective because it lacked clear performance goals, reliable criteria for identifying suspicious behavior, and failed to demonstrate that it enhanced aviation security by preventing any known terrorist attacks. Audits found insufficient oversight and management, with travelers sometimes surveilled even after being deemed no longer a threat[4].
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.