Security theatre is security theatre. However, prior to TSA airlines were responsible for security. They contracted that security out to the lowest bidder:

https://www.npr.org/2021/09/10/1035131619/911-travel-timeline-tsa

That being said, my argument is not that TSA is better. I’m not arguing at all. I’m just offering some additional information to highlight what came before TSA.

DHS formed in the wake of 9/11 because federal agencies could not get their shit together and collaborate. Whether by design or rapid evolution, it became less of a coordinating agency between disparate federal intelligence agencies and more of a mysterious extra-judicial entity with a military arm. Oh and TSA. Let’s not forget about humble ole’ TSA.