Kristi Noem Seeks White House Approval for $70 Million Luxury Jet With Private Bedroom, Says It Will Be Used for Deportation Flights
Kristi Noem is asking the White House to approve the purchase of a $70 million luxury jet, which would be paid for by taxpayers. She says the aircraft would be used to carry out deportation flights.
According to NBC News, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted a request to the Office of Management and Budget to buy a Boeing 737 Max 8. Until now, Noem has only used the plane through a lease agreement.
DHS officials reportedly told budget officials that if the purchase is approved, the jet would serve two purposes: deportation flights and official government travel for cabinet business.
The aircraft includes several high-end features. It has a private bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a kitchen, showers, a bar, and multiple large television screens.
The jet’s interior was designed by New York designer Peter Marino and is described as having an “exceptional” design.
Some critics have questioned how such a luxury plane would be used to transport migrants. In response, a DHS spokesperson said changes are already being made.
According to the spokesperson, at least one of the bedrooms is being converted into seating to prepare the aircraft for deportation missions.
DHS also argues that the jet would be more cost-effective than current options. Officials say it would cost about 40% less to operate than the military aircraft currently used for ICE deportation flights.
The department claims that, over time, using the new jet could save American taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars.
