Go easy on us Yanks!
First off be sure that story is accurate! They change directives so often it is hard to keep up!
Second off, think about what Homeland Security and their task, which is, well, just that. Several VERY high profile US events coming up, and with the picture in my mind's eye of people jumping out of those towers still very clear, I can understand the motivation behind their feelings. While TSA/Homeland Secruity appear autocratic, they also have ears and do listen to airline input.
There is a justifiable fear over rogue crewmembers, including flight attendants, taking over an aircraft.
One day, we will hopefully breath a sigh of relief, but for now the guard is way up.