Ruben Gallego Questions Kristi Noem on DHS Spending and Border Security

DHS Spending and the Gulfstream Jet Request

• 💡 Senator Ruben Gallego questioned Secretary Kristi Noem regarding a $50 million request for a Gulfstream jet, questioning its justification amidst departmental overspending.
• 🎯 Noem clarified that the $50 million request was for the Coast Guard to replace an aging, over-20-year-old jet that is beyond its usable hours and difficult to maintain.
• ⚠️ The Coast Guard has faced neglect, with many airframes grounded due to lack of maintenance and parts, impacting its operational capabilities.
• ✈️ The new jet would be used by the Coast Guard in the same manner as its current fleet, and the Secretary indicated she might use other available aircraft for her travel.

Border Security and Cartel Recruitment

• 📌 Gallego highlighted concerns about DHS overspending on mass deportation campaigns while Republicans propose cutting Medicaid.
• 🚨 He also raised the issue of cartels targeting teenagers via social media for smuggling operations, referencing his proposed 'Combating Cartels on Social Media Act'.
• 💬 Noem acknowledged the danger of cartels becoming more established and recruiting individuals within the U.S., including citizens and children.
• 📱 DHS is working with components like CISA and private industry to counter cartel activity on social media, aiming to stop their communication with children and raise awareness.
• 🤝 DHS has engaged in direct conversations with social media companies to proactively address these threats, though Noem suggested companies may prioritize profit over safety.
• 🗣️ Noem stated that social media companies have been willing to collaborate, and DHS is exploring solutions derived from these discussions to protect children.