Halt Wasteful $172 Million Jet Purchase During Government Shutdown

I am writing to express my deep concern over the Department of Homeland Security's recent decision to purchase two Gulfstream G700 jets for $172 million during the ongoing government shutdown. This extravagant expenditure is not only a display of poor judgment but also a gross misuse of taxpayer funds at a time when essential government services are suspended. The U.S. Coast Guard's sole-source contract for these luxury aircraft, intended for use by Secretary Kristi Noem and other senior leaders, is particularly troubling. While DHS claims their current jet is over 20 years old and beyond its operational usage hours, this does not justify such an exorbitant purchase during a fiscal crisis. The fact that Congress previously rejected a DHS request for a $50 million jet makes this $172 million acquisition even more questionable. It is alarming that DHS can find funds for high-end jets while TSA security personnel operating critical airport checkpoints remain unpaid during the shutdown. This stark contrast in priorities undermines public trust in government spending decisions and raises serious questions about the department's fiscal responsibility. I urge you to take immediate action to halt this purchase and launch an investigation into its legality and appropriateness. We need to ensure that taxpayer money is being used responsibly, especially during times of government shutdown. Please demand transparency from DHS regarding the source of funding for this purchase and work to redirect these funds to essential services and personnel affected by the shutdown. Our government's priority should be reopening and maintaining critical operations, not acquiring luxury aircraft. I ask that you voice strong opposition to this wasteful spending and work towards more responsible fiscal management within DHS and other government agencies. The American people deserve better stewardship of their tax dollars.