Coast Guard Acquires Two Private Jets for Secretary Noem

The U.S. Coast Guard has spent approximately $172 million on two private jets designated for the use of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and other agency officials. This decision has sparked criticism, particularly regarding Noem’s history of spending public funds during her tenure as the governor of South Dakota.

The Coast Guard, which operates under DHS, entered into a contract for two long-range used G700 jets manufactured by Gulfstream. According to The New York Times, these jets are marketed as having “the most spacious cabin in the industry.” Concerns were previously raised about the aging aircraft used by Noem, with Coast Guard Acting Commandant Kevin Lunday addressing Congress earlier this year. Lunday highlighted the need for modernization, stating that the existing jet was over 20 years old and “well beyond operational usage hours for a corporate aircraft.” He requested an additional $50 million for the Coast Guard budget to replace the current jet.

Uncertainty surrounds the funding specific to this latest contract. The Republican party’s signature policy bill, passed earlier this year, included $2.3 billion for the procurement of rotary-wing aircraft, but it remains unclear where the funds for the jets originated. A DHS spokesperson indicated that the purchases were made “for safety reasons,” emphasizing the urgent need for a replacement aircraft due to the age and condition of the existing one.

Concerns Over Spending and Accountability

Noem has implemented a rule requiring her personal approval for any DHS expenditure exceeding $100,000. This measure has reportedly led to a backlog of spending requests.

In a recent letter to Noem, Representatives Laura DeRosa (D-Conn.) and Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.) expressed their concerns regarding the jet purchases. They questioned the funding source and suggested that the Coast Guard seemed to be prioritizing Noem’s comfort at the expense of its operational needs, particularly during a government shutdown. The representatives conveyed their worries about Noem’s judgement and responsibility as a steward of taxpayer funds.

Noem’s spending practices have been scrutinized since her time as governor. In 2021, she faced backlash for spending $68,000 on renovations to the governor’s mansion, which included new rugs, chandeliers, and a sauna. Additionally, while campaigning for former President Donald Trump, her travel expenses reached $150,000, which included trips to high-profile locations such as Palm Beach, Florida, and Paris, as well as a bear hunt in Canada.

Reports indicate that Noem has utilized Coast Guard jets for travel to South Dakota at least nine times as of mid-July. She reportedly stayed at a Coast Guard property in Washington, D.C., typically reserved for the top admiral, citing safety reasons. A spokesperson for Noem stated that she reimbursed the government “tens of thousands of dollars” for personal travel.

The acquisition of these jets and the ongoing scrutiny of Noem’s spending habits raise significant questions about accountability and the use of public funds within the Department of Homeland Security. As the situation develops, further clarification regarding the procurement processes and the financial implications may be necessary to ensure transparency and public trust.