The politicians don't dare restrain them in case they are seen by the press as being weak on terrorists
...The answer closer to the truth is because senators and congressmen are usually exempt from such commoners' indignities; they are whisked through diplomatic or VIP lanes. And that's how power hungry TSA bullies have taken on a life of their own. And the big dull bulk of airline staff just roll over and put up with this crap.
thermostat...
First, all aircrew must have security "airside" passes to enter "security" areas on the airport.
...That may help at your home country airport in your home country; but not at Heathrow, Shanghai or Sydney...or are you suggesting that we carry a bag full of airport passes for all the world's airports on your routes?
