Department of Homeland Security Buys Jets for Kristi Noem Amid Scrutiny

Million-dollar purchase of jets for Kristi Noem sparks criticism

Democrats question public spending

DHS cites security concerns

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is acquiring a pair of private jets intended for the official travel of Secretary Kristi Noem.

The acquisition reportedly supports the immigration control efforts of President Donald Trump across the country, according to recent media reports.

The aircraft will be Gulfstream models, and the purchase will be made through the Coast Guard, which had already requested one plane in its budget earlier this year.

Purchase of jets for Kristi Noem sparks debate

Homeland Security buying 2 private jets for Kristi Noem’s use, reports say https://t.co/zOPYyVoUXv

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) October 19, 2025

The estimated cost of the request for Kristi Noem’s new jets was $50 million.

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However, reports differ on the final price of the acquisition.

According to The New York Times, the two planes will cost $172 million, while The Washington Post claims the figure reaches $200 million. Both will replace an older aircraft currently in use by the agency.

Kristi Noem faces political backlash

Watch Secretary Noem try to explain why she needs a new $50 million jet for her propaganda tour pic.twitter.com/Uhl3VxCt6Q

— Senator Ruben Gallego (@SenRubenGallego) May 20, 2025

A DHS spokesperson told The New York Times that the aircraft upgrades are justified by security needs but did not provide further details.

However, the agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment from USA TODAY, fueling controversy over the transparency of the expenditure.

The decision comes as Secretary Kristi Noem continues touring the country to promote President Trump’s border control and immigration policies.

These trips, mostly to various states, aim to reinforce the administration’s national security message but have also raised questions about the use of public resources for political purposes.

Reaction in Congress

The announcement drew swift reactions from several Democratic lawmakers.

Representatives Rosa DeLauro and Lauren Underwood sent a letter to Kristi Noem questioning the aircraft purchase.

In their message, they stated that the decision “suggests the Coast Guard has been instructed to prioritize personal comfort over operational needs.”

The congresswomen expressed that they are “deeply concerned about your judgment, leadership priorities, and accountability as a steward of taxpayer money.”

The letter requests detailed explanations about the justification for the purchase, the bidding process, and the security criteria cited by the Department.

The multi-million-dollar expense — combined with the lack of an official response — has fueled debate over public fund usage amid federal budget constraints.

Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security maintains that the acquisition is necessary to ensure the Kristi Noem’s safety and the efficiency of her travel operations.