Story perspectives

Homeland Security's Jet Purchase Plan Grounded Amid Scrutiny

11/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary, tried to buy 10 Spirit Airlines jets for deportations, but the planes did not own the aircraft and lacked engines.
The plan was arranged with adviser Corey Lewandowski and intended for deportations and personal travel.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials warned that buying the jets would be more costly than expanding contracts, and the proposal has been paused amid scrutiny of other DHS acquisitions.

History

Historical Context

In 2012, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security established the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program under President Obama to protect certain undocumented immigrants. This initiative highlighted ongoing immigration policy debates, which continue today, as seen in Kristi Noem's recent proposal to acquire Spirit Airlines jets for deportations, reflecting the complexities and costs of immigration enforcement strategies.

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Story summary

Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary, tried to buy 10 Spirit Airlines jets for deportations, but the planes did not own the aircraft and lacked engines.
The plan was arranged with adviser Corey Lewandowski and intended for deportations and personal travel.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials warned that buying the jets would be more costly than expanding contracts, and the proposal has been paused amid scrutiny of other DHS acquisitions.

1 / 2