Why do some U.S. airports have private security, but others use TSA?

Around 20 U.S. airports choose private security firms to manage passenger and cargo safety instead of the Transportation Security Administration, raising questions about security consistency nationwide. This setup highlights varying levels of federal oversight and funding, suggesting potential disparities in security measures. While the TSA ensures most airports meet federal safety standards, the use of private firms in select airports points to logistical and financial considerations that influence security practices. This situation underscores broader debates on the effectiveness and uniformity of airport security protocols across the country.