The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has allocated approximately $172 million for the purchase of two private jets intended for Secretary Kristi Noem and other agency officials. This decision has sparked scrutiny due to Noem’s previous spending practices during her tenure as governor of South Dakota. The Coast Guard, which operates under DHS, confirmed the acquisition of two long-range Gulfstream G700 jets, recognized for having “the most spacious cabin in the industry,” according to the manufacturer.
The decision to procure these jets was driven by a need for enhanced safety. Coast Guard Acting Commandant Kevin Lunday testified before Congress earlier this year, highlighting the outdated condition of the jet previously assigned to Noem. He stated, “the avionics are increasingly obsolete, the communications are increasingly unreliable and it’s in need of recapitalization, like much of the rest of the fleet.” To address these concerns, Lunday requested an additional $50 million for the Coast Guard’s budget.
While the acquisition aligns with the Coast Guard’s operational needs, questions remain regarding the funding sources for this substantial expenditure. An unnamed DHS spokesperson emphasized that the aging aircraft used by Noem was over 20 years old and had exceeded its operational usage hours.
Concerns Raised by Lawmakers
The jet purchases have drawn criticism from lawmakers, particularly Reps. Laura DeRosa (D-Conn.) and Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.), who expressed their concerns in a letter to Noem. They requested clarification on the funding source, suggesting that the Coast Guard’s priorities may have shifted toward accommodating Noem’s comfort rather than addressing critical operational needs, especially during a government shutdown.
In their correspondence, they stated, “we are deeply concerned about your judgment, leadership priorities, and responsibility as a steward of taxpayer dollars.”
Noem’s spending habits have been under scrutiny since her time as governor, where she controversially allocated $68,000 to upgrade the South Dakota governor’s mansion, including new rugs and chandeliers. Reports indicate that during her campaign for former President Donald Trump, Noem’s travel expenses reached $150,000, funded by South Dakota taxpayers. This included trips to various locations such as Palm Beach, Florida, and a six-day visit to Paris, among others.
Travel Patterns and Justifications
The Washington Post highlighted that Noem utilized Coast Guard jets for travel to South Dakota at least nine times by mid-July. A spokeswoman for Noem defended her actions, stating that her use of Coast Guard facilities was for safety reasons and that she reimbursed the government “tens of thousands of dollars” for personal travel on the aircraft.
The ongoing debate surrounding these jet purchases and Noem’s spending practices reflects a broader discussion about government accountability and the appropriate use of taxpayer funds. As the situation develops, further scrutiny of these decisions is likely, particularly in light of the fiscal responsibilities associated with public office.