Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) disputed a report claiming that the U.S. Coast Guard bought private jets for DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. The DHS stated that the jets were purchased for general use by Coast Guard staff, not exclusively for Noem. This issue raised questions about federal spending during a government shutdown.
Key Facts
- The DHS bought two Gulfstream G700 jets for $172 million for Coast Guard use.
- DHS claims the jets are needed for safety and mission readiness, providing secure communication and long-range mobility.
- The New York Times reported that the jets were bought for Secretary Kristi Noem, which DHS denied.
- Some Democrats criticized the purchase as prioritizing comfort over Coast Guard readiness.
- DHS publicly called the New York Times story misleading and defended the purchase as essential for emergency response.
- The government shutdown has put scrutiny on federal spending decisions.
- The Coast Guard's current aircraft need upgrades for reliable communication and mobility.
- The New York Times has not yet responded to DHS's criticism of their report.
