The Department of Homeland Security is buying a pair of private jets for Secretary Kristi Noem’s travels as she represents President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts across the country, according to media reports.
The two Gulfstream jets are being purchased through the Coast Guard, which requested one jet in its budget earlier this year at an estimated cost of $50 million.
The New York Times reported the two jets will cost $172 million, while The Washington Post reported their cost at $200 million.
The planes will replace an older jet. A Homeland Security spokesperson told The New York Times the upgrade is needed for safety reasons. The agency did not immediately return a request for comment from USA Today.
A pair of House Democrats sent Noem a letter questioning the jet purchases, saying they suggest the Coast Guard “has been directed to prioritize your own comfort above” its needs.
“We are deeply concerned about your judgment, leadership priorities, and responsibility as a steward of taxpayer dollars,” wrote Reps Rosa DeLauro and Lauren Underwood.
