Chairman Rand Paul (R-KY) of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has released a report detailing how the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Quiet Skies program and related watch lists were used for political surveillance under the Biden administration. The findings come ahead of a scheduled hearing, where a whistleblower—identified as a Federal Air Marshal—will testify before the committee.
According to the report, Tulsi Gabbard, who is a combat veteran, former congresswoman, and currently serves as Director of National Intelligence, was monitored on at least five flights in 2024. The surveillance reportedly began just one day after she publicly criticized President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The investigation also found that three Republican lawmakers were matched to TSA’s Silent Partner or Quiet Skies rules shortly after participating in political activities that opposed the Biden administration. In addition, at least two dozen Americans were placed on watch lists for actions such as protesting mask mandates or removing masks while on an aircraft.
Following January 6, 2021, TSA issued guidance allowing individuals to be added to watch lists based solely on suspected travel to Washington, D.C., even if there was no evidence of unlawful conduct.
The report further highlights an incident involving the wife of a Federal Air Marshal. She was labeled a domestic terrorist and subjected to ongoing monitoring despite no evidence connecting her to illegal activity during January 6. Her name appeared in the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Database, and she was followed by Federal Air Marshals during domestic flights for two years. Her movements and interactions were tracked closely until her name was cleared when the FBI closed its case due to mistaken identity.
“The release comes ahead of tomorrow’s hearing…A Whistleblower, a Federal Air Marshal first mentioned in Senator Paul’s recent op-ed…will testify before the Committee,” said Dr. Paul.
