Congress purchases jets for own use

August 6, 2009 However, word has come out that the House has authorized the purchase of three executive jets for their own use for $200 million. The three Gulfstream 500 luxury jets will be assigned to the Air Force and used, in part, to transport members of Congress.

A congressional staffer defends the decision, saying the new planes were needed to replace older ones, but in light of the rising budget deficit, watch-dog group The National Taxpayers Union calls the move "ridiculous."

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