US Lawmaker Seeks Details on DHS Luxury Jet Acquisition
A senior Democratic member of the United States House Oversight Committee has formally requested information from a company previously linked to a $70 million luxury aircraft now operated by the Department of Homeland Security.
Representative Robert Garcia addressed a letter to Fertitta Enterprises Inc. on Thursday, seeking contracts and internal communications between the company and former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Aircraft records indicate the firm formerly held ownership of the Boeing 737 Max jet.
Background of the Acquisition
The jet, equipped with a bedroom, bar, and flat-screen televisions, was acquired by DHS during the tenure of Secretary Noem and her chief of staff, Corey Lewandowski. Immigration authorities initially stated the aircraft would support deportation operations. Department officials subsequently informed the Wall Street Journal that the plane would also be available to Cabinet members and other senior figures, including First Lady Melania Trump.
A DHS spokesperson stated the aircraft was procured prior to the confirmation of Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who succeeded Noem. The spokesperson described the jet as providing secure command and control capabilities alongside rapid long-range mobility for Cabinet officials.
Corporate Connections Under Review
Fertitta Enterprises Inc. is believed to be affiliated with Tillman Fertitta, a businessman and current Ambassador to Italy who has contributed financially to President Trump and associated political action committees. The company did not sell the aircraft directly to DHS. Records suggest it was sold to Valkyrie Aviation, a firm linked to William Walters, whom Representative Garcia describes as a supporter of Secretary Noem who secured a separate contract during her tenure.
Representative Garcia has previously sought information from Walters regarding the matter. He is now asking Fertitta Enterprises Inc. to disclose the sale price to Valkyrie Aviation and whether any company representative received favorable treatment from Lewandowski.
Allegations and Responses
Democratic members of the House Oversight Committee are examining what they characterize as potential mismanagement at DHS under the previous leadership. Lewandowski has faced accusations of soliciting payments in exchange for facilitating government contracts.
A legal representative for Lewandowski has firmly rejected these claims, stating that his client denies ever demanding compensation from any government contractor. The lawyer described the allegations as lacking evidentiary support and noted that Lewandowski played no role in reviewing or approving contracts.
Fertitta Enterprises Inc. has been asked to respond to the requested information by June 4. The Department of Homeland Security, the White House, and a representative for Fertitta have been approached for comment.