Wealthy Americans, if they fly commercial, can afford first class with it’s own “Priority Access” security line. If you’re just moderately wealthy, you likely get a full refund of the fee from Amex as a cardholder perk.
I suspect TSA planned on many more frequent fliers (mostly business travelers) signing up for TSA Pre✓ ® or Global Entry, but didn’t count on the rarity of employers who reimburse the cost; most business travelers are loath to spend their own money on luxuries like Pre✓.
