TSA Search -- What are they looking for?

Primarily they are looking for anything that risks the safety of the aircraft, anything explosive, then firearms, then illegal narcotics. Some prescribed medication can show up as illegal, like opiate based pain killers, so carry prescribed drugs in their original packaging and carry a copy of the prescription if you can.

your assumption is probably correct. I would guess the "machine" gave them a false positive, the response to which is a very thourough search for explosive material. Having been there myself I understand your frustration. As for the TSA agent...I suspect that you just ran across the occasional a--h--- that you may meet in any circumstance. I to have met this type, but from my millions of miles experience I can assure you that most are just doing thier job (and trying to be pleasant) as they go through what is probably a very frustrating day. Next time just smile and get on with your trip and you will do fine.

TSA looks for weapons and for any chemicals that might be dangerous. Apparently the machine simply malfunctioned. It is unfortunate that you missed your flight, of course, but apparently you did get home. The agent's behavior was probably born of frustration.

I have been stopped at airports for having chemicals on my shoes that can be used in bombs -- farm fertilizer from walking across the farm yard! (Fertilizers were the main component of the bomb that was used in Oklahoma City.)

Chalk it up to a mixed up day with a bad delay, and get on with your life!

they have no idea what they are looking for. They just like to look important and busy. You were harrassed. Thank the Patriot Act for this and let your US senator and representative know how you were treated. Send them a letter each. And by the way you were in the US when you were in Puerto Rico.

Your husband was the beneficiary of a random search. Did he really want to leave all his belongings laying there?