Senate Leaders Demand Investigation into DHS Jet Purchases
(MENAFN) US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for an extensive inquiry into what he referred to as a "blatant misuse" of taxpayer funds by the Department of Homeland Security, following reports that it spent $172 million on two luxury private jets for Secretary Kristi Noem.
Schumer’s demand came on Monday after the New York Times revealed that the department had acquired two Gulfstream jets for Noem and other senior officials.
In a video message, Schumer expressed his concern, saying, "I’m demanding the GAO do a full investigation as to what the hell is the justification for buying these jets." Schumer formally requested that the Government Accountability Office investigate the rationale behind these purchases, questioning the necessity and appropriateness of such an expense.
The controversy arose after the New York Times reported on Saturday that the Department of Homeland Security had spent $172 million on the jets, sparking outrage among lawmakers.
Schumer criticized the Trump administration's explanation, which argued that the jets were necessary for "safety reasons." In a speech on the Senate floor, Schumer sharply contested this justification.
"Let’s be very clear: at a time that Americans are paying more for groceries, falling behind on car payments and seeing their electricity (bills) go up and up and up, Secretary Noem thinks it’s a good use of taxpayer dollars to buy two jets known for having 'the most spacious cabin in the industry,'" Schumer said, emphasizing the discrepancy between everyday Americans' struggles and the luxury purchases made by government officials.
In addition, on Saturday, House Appropriations Committee ranking member Rosa DeLauro and Homeland Security Subcommittee ranking member Rep.
Lauren Underwood requested further clarification from Noem regarding the jet purchases, seeking additional details on the justification and the process behind the decisions.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
