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DHS Proposes $70M Luxury Jet for Deportations, Sparking Controversy

2/19/2026

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DHS Jet Controversy

DHS seeks approval to purchase a luxury Boeing 737 Max 8 jet for $70 million to conduct immigrant deportation flights and transport Cabinet officials.
The jet would include a bedroom, kitchen, and bar, prompting concerns about its suitability for deportations.
DHS says the purchase will save taxpayer money, with critics questioning its necessity.
ICE currently uses charter flights for deportations, which are significantly cheaper than military flights.

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Noem Strains Coast Guard

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's focus on deportations strains relations with Coast Guard leadership.
Reports say Coast Guard planes are now prioritized for migrant transport, reducing capacity for search-and-rescue operations.
Noem ordered a C-130 from a search operation to return to deportation duties, angering Coast Guard officials.
Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS spokeswoman, plans to leave amid backlash over federal agents' actions in Minnesota, where two individuals were fatally shot.

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DHS Jet Controversy

DHS seeks approval to purchase a luxury Boeing 737 Max 8 jet for $70 million to conduct immigrant deportation flights and transport Cabinet officials.
The jet would include a bedroom, kitchen, and bar, prompting concerns about its suitability for deportations.
DHS says the purchase will save taxpayer money, with critics questioning its necessity.
ICE currently uses charter flights for deportations, which are significantly cheaper than military flights.

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