Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is facing growing backlash after it was revealed she’s seeking a brand-new $50 million jet through a last-minute addition to the Coast Guard budget, a move critics say is out of touch and deeply unpopular with both lawmakers and the public.
The request, tucked into the Department of Homeland Security’s spending plan for fiscal year 2025, would fund a second Gulfstream G550 jet for Noem’s personal travel. Lawmakers were blindsided by the request, which had not been previously discussed or requested.
“I was horrified last Friday when we received a last-minute addition to your spend plan for fiscal ’25 a new $50 million Gulfstream 5 for Secretary Noem’s personal travel coming from the Coast Guard budget. She already has a Gulfstream 5, by the way this is a new one,” said Rep. Lauren Underwood, a top Democrat on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, during a tense hearing Wednesday.
The Department of Homeland Security has attempted to justify the purchase, arguing that the current aircraft known as CG-101 is over 20 years old and beyond its operational service life. Tricia McLaughlin, DHS assistant secretary for public affairs, claimed the request was about safety and modernization, comparing the aircraft’s age to outdated Coast Guard vessels that also need replacement.
“This is a matter of safety,” McLaughlin said. “Much like the Coast Guard’s ships that are well beyond their service life and safe operational usage, Coast Guard aircraft are too. This Administration is taking action to restore our Nation’s finest maritime Armed Service to a capable fighting force.”
However, the justification has done little to calm the growing frustration among lawmakers and the public. Many see the move as extravagant, especially at a time when budget concerns are forcing cuts to vital public programs like Medicaid, nutrition assistance, and health services. Critics argue that prioritizing luxury jets over operational necessities or public services sends the wrong message.
Coast Guard Adm. Kevin Lunday, when pressed by Rep. Underwood, didn’t confirm whether DHS leadership had ordered the jet to be included, but he did defend the overall need for an updated fleet.
Still, the optics of Noem pushing for a second luxury jet during a time of economic uncertainty has struck a nerve. The request is being widely criticized as an example of elite privilege within the Trump administration and has left many questioning whether Secretary Noem’s priorities are aligned with those of everyday Americans.
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