Coast Guard Spent $200M on Private Jets for Kristi Noem, Top Officials
Newly obtained documents reveal the U.S. Coast Guard spent $200 million on private jet contracts to transport high-profile officials, including South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, over the past two years. The spending has drawn sharp criticism as federal agencies face scrutiny over taxpayer-funded travel.
Inside the $200M Private Jet Contract
The Coast Guard awarded the lucrative contract to Premier Jet Solutions, a private aviation firm specializing in government and corporate travel. The no-bid agreement bypassed standard competitive procedures, raising transparency concerns.
Key figures who used the jets:
– Gov. Kristi Noem (non-federal official)
– Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Linda Fagan
– Senior Pentagon leaders
Why Did the Coast Guard Approve This Spending?
Officials cited “operational necessity” and security concerns, claiming commercial flights posed risks. However, watchdogs argue the expense was unjustified.
Danielle Brian, Executive Director of the Project On Government Oversight (POGO), called it “an outrageous misuse of taxpayer dollars.”
Kristi Noem’s Controversial Flights
Records show Noem took at least 12 private jet trips in 2023, including:
– Rapid City to D.C. for GOP leadership meetings
– Florida fundraiser with conservative donors
– Military base visits for speeches and photo ops
While Noem’s office called the trips “official business,” ethics experts question whether political events warrant military-funded travel.
Bipartisan Backlash in Congress
Lawmakers from both parties demand accountability:
– Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) called for an audit, citing budget shortfalls for critical missions.
– Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) accused officials of treating taxpayer funds like a “personal slush fund.”
What’s Next?
The Coast Guard faces pressure to disclose flight details. Congressional hearings are likely, potentially impacting:
– Agency leadership
– Noem’s political future (she’s a rumored 2024 VP contender)
Key Takeaways
✔ $200M spent on private jets for Noem and officials.
✔ No-bid contract sparks transparency concerns.
✔ Bipartisan calls for audits and investigations.
✔ Ethics debate over political vs. official travel.
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