Incumbent TSA Leader Shares Worries about Airport Security -- Security Today

Incumbent TSA Leader Shares Worries about Airport Security

Peter Neffenger says he will identify security gaps and close them

By Matt Holden
Jun 10, 2015

Coast Guard Vice Adm. Peter Neffenger has said that he plans to fully identify any gaps in airport security and close them if he is to be confirmed by the Senate to lead the TSA. Neffenger was picked by President Barack Obama amid reports of security flaws.

Neffenger said Wednesday that the inspector general reports were disturbing to him and they show a need to "refocus on the mission."

"It doesn't surprise me that there are people out there who have found ways to beat the system," Neffenger told lawmakers. "But the question is how you are going to deal with that."

When pressed by Republican Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska to grade the agency's performance, Neffenger said only "they aren't where they need to be."

"The day you think you've got the security system right is the day that you are going to be defeated in that security system," Neffenger said.

About the Author

Matt Holden is an Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media, Inc. He received his MFA and BA in journalism from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He currently writes and edits for Occupational Health & Safety magazine, and Security Today.

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