Homeland Security Secretary Seeks $70M Luxury Jet Amid Shutdown

Kristi Noem's plan to purchase a lavish Boeing 737 has sparked outrage among Trump administration officials.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:31am

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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has reportedly drawn the ire of her fellow Trump officials after proposing the use of deportation funds to purchase a $70 million luxury jet the department is already using. The jet, equipped with a queen-sized bed, kitchen, bar, and four flat-screen televisions, is allegedly being used by Noem and her alleged lover Corey Lewandowski to travel the country, despite claims it would be used for deportations.

Why it matters

The proposed purchase of the luxury jet has raised concerns about Noem's priorities and judgment, with critics arguing the funds should be used for the department's operational needs rather than her personal comfort, especially during a government shutdown that has impacted the Department of Homeland Security.

The details

Noem is trying to get approval to buy the lavish Boeing 737, which the department is already using. The funds for the jet would come from the budget allocated for Project Homecoming, a self-deportation program co-run by DHS and the State Department. This proposal has reportedly frustrated the Office of Management and Budget and the State Department, with one senior administration official calling it "the world's worst deal to buy an aircraft." DHS claims the new plane will save taxpayers money, but critics argue the indulgent features make it inappropriate for government use.

  • The Department of Homeland Security is currently leasing the jet.
  • DHS purchased two Gulfstream G700s for $172 million last October.

The players

Kristi Noem

The Homeland Security Secretary who has proposed purchasing the $70 million luxury jet.

Corey Lewandowski

Noem's chief adviser, who has repeatedly denied the alleged relationship between him and Noem.

Russell Vought

The OMB Director, whose office is responsible for approving the expense of the luxury jet.

Rosa DeLauro

A Congresswoman who has expressed concerns about Noem's judgment, leadership priorities, and responsibility as a steward of taxpayer dollars.

Lauren Underwood

A Congresswoman who has expressed concerns about Noem's judgment, leadership priorities, and responsibility as a steward of taxpayer dollars.

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What they’re saying

“In addition to raising serious questions about your ability to effectively lead an agency whose procurement strategies appear to vary on a whim, the procurement of new luxury jets for your use suggests that the U.S. [Coast Guard] has been directed to prioritize your own comfort above the U.S.C.G.'s operational needs, even during a government shutdown. We are deeply concerned about your judgment, leadership priorities, and responsibility as a steward of taxpayer dollars.”

— Rosa DeLauro and Lauren Underwood, Congresswomen

What’s next

OMB Director Russell Vought, whose office is responsible for approving the expense of the luxury jet, is expected to make a decision on the purchase in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The proposed purchase of the $70 million luxury jet by the Homeland Security Secretary has raised serious concerns about the department's priorities and the responsible use of taxpayer funds, especially during a government shutdown that has impacted the agency's operations.