Evita Duffy-Alfonso, daughter of U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, has criticised the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) after what she described as an 'absurdly invasive' pat-down at an airport security checkpoint. She shared her experience on social media, claiming she nearly missed her flight after opting out of a body scanner due to pregnancy concerns.
Duffy-Alfonso alleged that TSA agents were 'rude' and tried to pressure her into using the scanner. She called the agency 'unconstitutional' and suggested that if the TSA were under her father's authority, he would 'radically limit' or 'lobby Congress to abolish' it. The Transportation Department declined to comment on the matter.
The TSA stated it is aware of the complaint and takes screening procedures seriously, vowing to investigate thoroughly. The agency noted that passengers can request a private screening as an alternative to body scanners, but warned that pat-downs require sufficient pressure to detect concealed items.
Duffy-Alfonso clarified she supports President Donald Trump and the Department of Homeland Security, but called for 'more common sense' in how Americans exercising their right to travel are treated. Her father, Sean Duffy, has promoted a 'golden age of travel' campaign, which she linked to the need for TSA reform.
The TSA, created after the 9/11 attacks, is responsible for screening passengers and cargo for weapons or explosives. It operates under the Department of Homeland Security, not the Department of Transportation, which Secretary Duffy leads.
