ACLU of Kentucky

By:  Kate Fischer, ACLU of Kentucky intern

Senator Rand Paul is no novice when it comes to frequent flyer miles. But by some standards, he may now be an expert on the invasive TSA policies and procedures for screening passengers. In an interview with FOX news, Paul explained that “This morning I went through the screener, and the machine said there was a hot spot near my knee. So I showed them my knee and pulled my sock down and felt that would be sufficient. But they wanted to do a pat-down exam. I said I would walk back to the screener. They said no, you either get a pat-down or you don't fly."

Senator Paul was escorted to a cubicle where he made a cell phone call to his office informing them that he would miss his speaking engagement. TSA officials then told him that because he used his cellphone he would be getting a full pat-down.

“I took that as a threat. I didn't take that very well - that they were going to punish me for using my phone,” said Paul in an interview with FOX news host Gretta Von Susteran.

Since the September 11^th attacks, the TSA security screening measures that have been enacted walk a fine line between protecting public safety and infringing upon an individual's right to privacy. Republican, Democrat, ACLU supporter or opponent; we all need to be wary and cognizant of any encroachment on our civil liberties. Violating the rights of one individual is a violation of the rights of all.

To read more about TSA policies and procedures, please visit Know Your Rights When Traveling.