Overview
- Axios reported that DHS bought two Gulfstream G700s in October for roughly $200 million and is leasing a Boeing 737 business jet with plans to buy it for about $70 million.
- Funding for the aircraft came from the One Big Beautiful Bill’s border-security allocations and Operation Homecoming accounts, according to the reporting.
- A senior administration official called the purchases “the world’s worst deal,” and OMB Director Russ Vought raised concerns with the White House, Axios reported.
- DHS cited mission needs in procurement documents, including secure communications for principal travel, and a spokesperson argued that owning aircraft can be cheaper than long-term rentals.
- Reporting also notes DHS is buying six standard Boeing 737s for removal flights, while critics such as Rep. Bennie Thompson condemned the luxury spending as inappropriate and potentially illegal.