Unfortunately, TSA has not always purchased the right goods or had the technical expertise to evaluate potential purchases.

It begs the question to me whether we are in search, whether we are trying to solve problems, or is this a race to be obstructionist in chief.

I was excited when I saw the mild title of this one and thought we were actually having a hearing.

The Honorable Cedric L. Richmond, a Representative in Congress From the State of Louisiana, and Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Transportation Security:

I thank Chairman Hudson, Ranking Member Richmond, and all of the Members of the Transportation Security Subcommittee for your diligence on this important topic for aviation security.

I appreciate your support in holding TSA accountable for this oversight.

As I sit here and ponder my questions and I look at the title, the 'Release of Criminal Detainees by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement: Policy or Politics?', it begs the question whether the hearing itself is policy or politics.

Do you think it would be beneficial to codify ASAC into law so that you don't have a gap after expiration?

I support that goal. However, last year, only 1 in 12 passengers qualified for expedited screening.

We applaud Representatives Gabbard, Richmond, and Joyce for introducing this legislation and for their continued support of America's wounded and injured veterans.

Administrator Pistole, you speak, just starting where you left off which is your Senate confirmation and your agreement to look at small knives.

The water was 3 years old. It was visibly dirty from storage. So that I think is just an unacceptable treatment for people who are really working very hard.

I appreciate the administrator's efforts to implement policies that reject a one-size-fits-all security philosophy.

This is not simply about failure to consult with AFGE and other key stakeholders, or lack of notice, or a breakdown in procedures.

Well, again, I started by saying that I don't question your judgment because you do what you do, and we have to trust that you are making the right decisions.

I see that my time is expired, so Mr. Chairman, I am going to yield back.

I look forward to hearing from TSA about how it will more than triple the number of passengers receiving expedited screening.

I look forward to hearing more about TSA's efforts to secure our surface and mass transportation systems and particularly its efforts to address rail security.

I will also get you a letter detailing the complaints that I have received from my local agents as I walk through the airport.

So yes, to answer your question.

If there is any set of people in this country that deserve to have their own PreCheck, Trusted Traveler, or Global Entry, then it is our wounded warriors.

I am always, and always will be, a believer that more consultation that is with the industry and with stakeholders and with victims will give you better U.S. National policy as an end result.

I am supportive of the ultimate goal of this policy and I look forward to working with TSA to sustain and expand these programs.

Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent that statements in support of H.R. 1344... be inserted into the record.

These efforts demonstrate a commitment to engaging in a rigorous risk analysis and making common-sense changes to policies impacting the flying public.