Letters: Airport security cure: Unionization!

RE YOUR editorial "Airport Security: 'Junk' Science":

Each day, at airports across the country, the lives of millions of air travelers depend on the professionalism and vigilance of Transportation Security Administration officers. The vast majority of the traveling public knows that the TSA officers carry out an essential job for their country and appreciate their efforts.

These days, the importance of a world-class transportation protection workforce is all too apparent. As heightened security procedures are put in place, the key is to remember that TSA officers are there to secure air travel and protect the traveling public.

As the union that represents thousands of TSA officers nationwide, the National Treasury Employees Union is working hard to ensure that not only does the public and TSA respect the officers' work, but officers have a meaningful voice to improve conditions at the TSA.

To that end, NTEU has long advocated for TSA officers to be granted workplace rights, such as collective bargaining, that are on par with the private sector and other federal employees.

TSA officers are trained professionals who are dedicated to the TSA mission. They should be commended, not criticized, for the fine job that they do.

Colleen M. Kelley, President

National Treasury Employees Union

Washington, D.C.

nolead begins

I watched "Dancing with the Stars" and saw how Sarah Palin's daughter, Bristol, won all those votes despite being part of the lowest-scoring couple on the contest.

I said to myself that if they can manipulate the voting process of a reality show, imagine what they can do at the voting booths in 2012.

Carlton R. Manley, Philadelphia