Should House cancel $550 million order for new jets?
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/08/06/art.jet.jpg caption="A group of Democratic and Republican senators are opposed to spending more than $550 million on new jets."]
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
In an update to a story we brought you last week in the Cafferty File:
A group of Republican and Democratic senators is now saying "not so fast" to the House's plans to spend more than a half a billion dollars on new jets.
The Wall Street Journal reports that these senators - along with the Pentagon - are critical of the $550 million plan to buy 8 new Gulfstream and Boeing planes for government officials and VIP's to fly around in.
Democratic Senator Claire McCaskill says, "The whole thing kind of makes me sick to my stomach" adding that the move paints members of Congress as "out of touch”, spending money like it's Monopoly money. Several senators are planning to oppose the purchase when they take up the bill in the fall.
Originally the administration wanted $220 million to buy 4 jets to replace older planes. But - before the House left town on vacation - they doubled the order to 8. The measure was part of a larger defense-funding bill.
In a masterful bit of rationalization, supporters in the House claim buying eight new jets would actually save money later on because the new planes are cheaper to operate than the older ones. They say it's not a question of whether or not the planes will be bought, but when they'll be bought.
More rationalization: Those who approved this extravagance claim these jets are mostly used by the military, and that members of Congress only use them 15% of the time. So I guess that makes it all OK.
UPDATE: Late Monday, the House dropped plans to spend $550 million on these jets. Instead they're asking for $220 million, the original amount requested by the Pentagon.
Here’s my question to you: Should the House cancel its order for $550 million worth of new jets?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Ted from Beaverton, Oregon says:
Yes. Maybe they will find a heck of a lot of business that really isn't as official as they pretend, and spend time in their offices and on the floor of the House reading the bills they pass off on us. Let them go coach for a while and see what their constituents are stuck with.
Dave says:
The $550 million for new Gulfstream and Boeing jets should be cancelled immediately. The House members should take up driving hybrids, flying coach on commercial airlines, using teleconferencing and video conferencing, and riding bicycles.
Don from Louisiana says:
I don't have a problem with the government buying jets. What's the difference between $500 million in jets and $500 million in stimulus? These jets will put more people to work than most of the "projects" in the stimulus bill.
Susan says:
With all of the TARP, bailout and healthcare discussions, we're asked to think about the greater good. When 1 in 9 people are collecting food stamps and businesses are boarded up and unemployment is skyrocketing and spending is down everywhere, how can Congress rationalize this? Seems that everyone except the government is being asked to tighten their belts.
Patsy from Texas says:
Absolutely, it should be cancelled. I called my congressman's office to ask how he voted on the Appropriations Committee, but they said those votes were not disclosed, and my congressman was in Alaska, so they could not ask him. I then e-mailed the question, and of course, no answer yet. What a rude awakening this has been, and I am happy to see that someone, somewhere, is seeing this for what it is. Scratching each others backs while "Rome is burning". Thanks, Jack, for not letting this thing die!
Shantell says:
Hell yes! Cancel the planes or we'll cancel them in the next election cycle!
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Yes, Jack, they should definitely cancel these jets. What were they thinking? If they are for the military, my guess is the military has perfectly good jets to use already. This is not the time to waste half a billion dollars on anything. I hope that good sense prevails!
Jack,
Are they buying fighter jets to fly back to their districts (as per your photo)? If so, I say spend the money. If they are buying executive jets, I say save the money and use commercial. The fighter jet thing would be pretty cool though. I can just see Nancy locking onto Boehner somewhere in the skies over DC...
Jack, this private jets shenanigans is just another reason of why it's time to "cancel" the entire House and start over. 2010 can't get here fast enough, and neither Republicans nor Democrats should feel safe. It will be a BAD year to be an incumbent.
Yes they should Jack. I think that $550 million should go to the homeless families of this depression cause by the greed of the more than one system in this country. We have the greed of Wal-street, government officials, banks, insurance companies, lobbyists and CEO's. I think a home for a child to wake up in a bed and shower and get ready for school is much more important than these jets. Don't you Jack?
Absolutely, the order should be cancelled. Americans need to keep a much closer watch on our Congress because this is not the only order that should be cancelled. Most of the extravagant spending goes unnoticed and unreported on.
Brownwood, Texas
Of course it should. Common sense would dictate that but whether it becomes a reality. . . we are dealing with the House and they have no problem wasting our money. If we could get rid of pork spending, we may actually be able to fund decent healthcare, imagine that!
Make them ride coach and make sure they pay their own tab for any extra carry on charges.
Perhaps they will begin to value the dollar more when its theirs being spent.
Absolutely! Gosh why did Ross Perot have a emotional meltdown! America needs a 3rd party & a strong 3rd party candidate!. The Democrats in the Congress must be drinking the SAME egotistical water that the Republicans drank when they were the majority because they are making the SAME bone-head mistakes. Congress needs to spend $500 Million on jets like we need to spend $500 Million in IRAN of which we have not intentions of doing. I hope Speaker Pelosi get back on Rx's and stop making the Democrats look like self-righteous (its OUR turn now), fanatics. 2010 Elections are 1 yr away.
Write the check, if the congress doesn't want them, I will be happy to take them off their hands.
Jack,
It's simple. If they want to spend $550 million on jets, that's fine. Just take the $550 million out of the over indulged military budget from somewhere else. Maybe they could cut back 55 toilet seats to make it up.
Jack–
Yes they should–unless there's a cash for clunkers plan for old jets! Now is not the time to update the government's travel fleet.
It should be canceled until the House and Senate provide the American people with a balanced budget. It's not bad enough they are spending money they don't have, but now spending money they don't have on things they don't immediately need is just irresponsible. What a great example they set to the US citizens on fiscal responsiblity!
Jack,
Unless the older planes are in such poor condition that they are likely to explode in air, I am pretty sure the beaurocrats can deal with it until the economy recovers. After all, my first car was a piece of junk that stalled in almost every intersection and puked black smoke through the air vents, but you don't see me asking for taxpayers to replace it.
Brian
Boise, ID
We are eating cake in Michigan so ya, let them have their jets.
Wil
Grand Rapids Mi.
No, they are entiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiitled ....... to new jets, free medicine, free homes, free cars, free retirement, free spending money, free schools, free vavcations, free utilities, ........ free to spend our kids money, free to spend our grand kids money, .....
Monopoly money? Isn't that the stuff that's been used for a long time now in the good old U.S.A.? Maybe Congress should do less jetting and more reading, you know, like reading what they vote for before they vote.
mad plato
Texas
With all of the TARP, bailout and healthcare discussions..we're asked to think about the 'greater good'. When 1 in 9 are collecting foodstamps and busineses are boarded up and unemployment is skyrocketing and spending is down EVERYWHERE... how can they rationalize this. Seems that everyone except the government is being asked to tighten their belts. I wonder if we can turn the tables..if I were in massive debt, could I then ask the government for money for a private plane?
These people are amazing when it comes to criticizing others for their lack of concern for tax payers money being wasted but don't hold themselves to the same criteria. These people are pathetic and should try living like the rest of us, pay as you go and fly coach with the rest of the cattle.
Yes. They can fly coach!
Lakeland, FL
I can't believe that the same people who scorned the GM, FORD, and the executives of CHRYSLER CORPORATIONS for flying to meetings in Washington are planning to buy planes with our tax dollars. At least the big three didn't spend our money for their planes. Somebody has to stop the maddness. It's just unbelievable.
Fred
Livingston, AL
Yeah, they should.... BUT, I have a cold lemonade that says it ends up getting through.... (Reminds me of the car salesman who was trying to convence me that I should spend $20,000 to buy a new car that gets 2 MPG more than the one that I have..... Someone is getting something out of it, but it isn't me, or the average taxpaying citizen.)
Yep – without a doubt. This is from the same Congress that for the last three years has been working consistently to bankrupt our Country. Stop the spending NOW!
Without a doubt! It is insane that they are so arrogant to spend our hard earned tax dollars on this.
Hello!! Under what concept given the economic status of our country does congress have the right to purchase more planes for their luxury? Let them use the same transportation the rest of us do–that would save millions of dollars.
Since Obama declined a new Plane/copter the Senate can follow his good example. Not at this time with all the spending going on and not knowing what is going to be dropped from the budget to make up for all of the spending. They can use public transportation or drive one of our hybrd cars for closer events.
Guntersville, AL
I kind of think so.
No, they can use commercial flights like the car CEOs.. Ha ! What a joke our leaders seem to be.... Sad point is we are the ones to keep them employed...
If the planes can pay for themselves in maintenance and fuel savings over a course of four to six years then I have no problem with it.
Jack: Yes, the planes should be cancelled. What were they thinking? Our representives need to remember they are serving their citizens, not the special interest lobbists. The good news on all this is that we'v just found the first $550 million to fund the health reform effort!
Not only should the senate oppose this example of wasteful government spending, it should also repeal the laws that allow/direct the use of any government aircraft to be used by members of congress.
All members of congress make enough money to be able to afford their own travel expenses. Any time they travel back to their states or districts it is paid for by their re-election committees or pac's.
Two options:-
-GOPers should set the example by cancelling the order and some bills that they like so much so that the money can be used to insure uninsured Americans
-Or let the jets be bought and should never fly them.
If not they are only a bunch of angry hypocrites.
The $550 million for new Gulfstream and Boeing jets should be cancelled immediately. The House members should take up driving a hyrbrid, fly commercial airlines coach, use teleconferencing and video conferencing, and ride bicycles.
The members of House trying to approve this are just as bad as the corrupt CEOs of banking, insurance, mortgage, and other companies that have been ripping off America for the last 8-9 years.
This should absolutely be voted down. Any member of Congress who votes for this should have it rubbed in their faces when they are up for re-election. Personally, I think you should have to pass an IQ test when running for office, because Congress is full of dummies.
Come on Jack – the real question should be why are there any jets available at all to members of Congress – they should be flying economy commercial jets. The savings would be tremendous and make them more accountable to the people for the trips that they define as "fact finding" such as the latest trip reported that visited places such as the Great Barrier reef, Antartica, Hawaii etc. Scuba diving 3 times and accompanied by spouses.
The cost of that trip could have saved 2 or 3 homes from foreclosure or bought health care for 100 people for a year. Where are the priorities? More importantly where is their conscience?
I'm a little sick of the hypocrisy of the Go Overboard Party. They continue to upbraid democrats for spending, but anytime a budget cut is proposed they vote against it in the same numbers as the democrats. They put as much 'pork' in the recovery bill as the democrats, they spent a huge amount on the prescription drug benefit for Medicaid - the difference is they cut taxes and then leave huge deficits for the democrats to deal with.
Yes. Maybe they will fnd a heck of a lot of business that really isn't as official as they pretend, and spend time in their offices and on the floor of the House reading the bills they pass off on us. Let 'em go coach for awhile and see whar their constituents ar stuck with.
If not totally cancel it, reduce it to one jet. And possibly get rid of some that they already have…
Briarcliff Manor, NY
Cost-saving measures often cost money up front. The important step is determining whether or not the money spent will be eventually be made up for by the money saved. I'm skeptical that operating these 8 new planes will, in the long run, save $550 million versus operating the older planes. Additionally, members of Congress have admitted that the planes are used for their purposes only 15% of the time; the military uses them for the remainder. Yet, the Department. of Defense has specifically denied needing the jets.
The planes will have to be bought eventually. Now, with the deficit continually expanding, is not the time to buy them. Especially since there is no demonstrable need.
Jack:
They should keep the planes, that way the taxpayers can send them home and fly in new members of Congress who will actually do the people's work!
I'd like to see Congress create a budget like I do in my household. If there is a serious issue with x number of planes/jets..yes, fix or replace them. But don't just burn cash because you don't think any one is looking. WE ARE!!!
kat
-Omaha, NE
Yes it should be cancelled rather than join all the other unnecessary purchases, projects, and wars that have wasted trillions of hard-earned taxpayer dollars over the past 50 years.
Seattle, WA
Of course it's important for our president and vice president to have special planes for their protection. I can understand special flights for the secretary of state. But I truly don't see the need for planes for "government officials and VIPS." Surely these people can fly first class or have chartered flights!
Yes, they should cancel it twice to make sure.
Is congress calice enough to accept this proposal should it go through?
With so many people in this country being deprived of even the basic needs of life it is a shame that this proposal should even be put on the table.
Congress can take the commercial flights in the coach seating or are the seats to narrow for them fat cats.
Is it possible that congress could even make a good will gesture like that?
Absolutely, Jack.
Sneaky knuckle draggers...Did they really think they could slide this through without the American people knowing...They are living way in the past -the Information Age is upon them and may remove them from the Que to use even the old ones!
Jack,
Of course they should, unless they want those jets to become the new hot topic at town hall meetings.
Jim
Reno, Nevada
Yes! The prissy little prima donnas should take the bus. Who the Hell do these bums think they are, anyway?
Susan
Tuscaloosa, AL
Yes.
Jack,
All know cliche's have been debunked by this action of the congress. While I know it has not been approved, I have to wonder as an immigrant to this great land, how did we become great when our leadership lacks basic common sense. I say get in line like the rest of us on commercial planes, there is enough connectivity that you will not be missed!
Rohan
Considering that they should never have been ordered in the first place, I don't see a problem with cancelling it before production starts. If production starts then it needs to be left alone.
Pelosi, Reid and the democrats are already separated from the people by a wide gulf, they might as well stay up in the air, unitl they get booted out.
How about Ford tri-motors? That would keep them in the air longer where they could do less damage. We seem to have gone back to the thirties.-Why not fly as such?
Yes they should cancel the order. Its absurd but run away spending is a sad fact that comes with this Democratically controlled Congress. These politicians are so out of touch with normal Amercians it is inconcievable they can make decisions for us. I have alot of respect for Senator McCaskill. She is worthy of her position.
I can't believe that after the hoo-hah that was raised by Congress over the automakers' use of private jets, they could even contemplate ordering private jets for their own use, regardless of who else would have access to them. The whole idea stinks. With the costs of vital services like healthcare exploding before our very eyes, our Congressmen and Congresswomen seem intent on diminishing themselves even further (if that's even possible) in the eyes of their constituents. And let's not forget that each month people continue to lose jobs and face eviction from foreclosed on homes. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
If the jets are not vital to our safety, then, yes, it should be cancelled.
Many of us maintain our means of transportation by overhauling,
updating and proper maintenance.
And, Jack, it would be interesting to know who doubled the order
and if planes manufactured in their states.
Cancel the order and cancel the job of any congressman that votes for them in Nov. 2010. They need to book their flights on Travelocity, etc. and start living like the rest of us...tightening our belts.
Hermann, MO
The representatives should go before the public and inform us as to why they feel these jets are necessary. This way, we could get the information DIRECTLY from them, and know who NOT to vote for.
Saying Congress is out of touch is a gross understatement, but back to the question: Why can’t the healthcare lobby buy these planes for Congress as part of the payola? My premiums for this year alone should cover the down payment.
I'm driving a 13-year-old car that I bought used a few years ago... and I plan on driving this car until the repair bills become too large. Hopefully, I'll get her up to 200,000 miles.
How old are the planes they now use?
The order needs to be canceled and the idiots that wanted it need to be blackballed and voted out of office.
The best way to resolve this debate is to let Congress buy the new jets provided they are willing to give up their government paid health care plans to pay for the cost.
Autoworkers had to give up wages and benefits at the insistence of Congress and now the shoe is on the other foot let them put their money where their mouths are.
Not only does their health care plan trump mine, but so does their mode and style of transportation.
yes, is it that since the president have announced we are coming out of the recession now that they think they can go on a shopping spree. think a again congress.
So, they bust the chops of the auto makers for using corporate jets, and now this. I guess the difference is that the automakers came begging for money. The government just robs the US citizens. Zero accountability in both cases, and neither entity has any sense of fiscal sensibility.
Members of the house are having a "flight of fantasy" in their reasoning.
Jack absolutely yes!!!!! I cannot believe that these individuals who are screaming about a deficit are willing to add to it for their own convenience. Shame on them!!!!!
Yes, cancel them and reduce the Defense budget by that amount.
yes....unless they all plan to get on them and leave their cushy jobs
This is a joke. They can fly around in cargo planes we have already paid for. This $500 million could have bought 2 F22's to help us stay secure for decades. Cancel it!!
So, who was the brainiac who thought this up? Time to give them the old heave ho.... Too bad they don't have a clue......
It's a sad world we're living in when you have people dying everyday for lack of healthcare and the government wants to use $550 million dollars for its own personal leisure transportation. It makes me sick to my stomach and ashamed to call myself an American.
Absolutely the order should be cancelled! As well as Obama's socialist health care reform.
Obviously they should cancel the order for the new planes. How can they justify spending that amount of money for more planes than the pentagon even requested. In this day and age we need to be smarter about our spending. Wasting money on things we don't need like this is how we ended up in the mess we are currently in.
I swear to god our elected officials are dumber than dirt! Unemployment is thru the roof and these dummies are doing just what they jumped on the CEO's about. These people need to get a clue. If they cannot make good decisions financially, how are they going to make good judgements on everyday life. Tell them to buy flying monkeys!
Wait, so we can't get health care reform, but we can buy congress jets that we the people wont use? Some days I feel like pulling a french revolution...just without the violence.
I don't have a problem with the government buying jets. What's the difference between 500 million in jets and 500 million in stimulus? These jets will put more people to work than most of the "projects" in the stimulus bill.
Of course they should. How STUPID are they? (Don't answer that!) Congress and other government officials should show their support for the airline industry and fly coach just like the rest of us. Or better still– drive! That way they'd have to buy gas, food & lodging, and maybe take in a little putt-putt golf here and there. Stimulating the economy everywhere they go. That's harder to do from 20,000 feet.
Jack
We are in a recession the government needs to increase spending to boost the economy. They need to keep the planes because buying them will put people to work.
Yes, they should cancel this major expense!!The House does not need eight more jets. Where do they think this money comes from?
NO WAY
Last year congress blasted the CEOs of the compainies asking for bailout money for coming to DC in private jets and now congress wants to buy 8 planes!
thats just stupid
The liberal left in Congress is so hypocritical. I think they thought they could sneek this one by the American public but we have caught on to the games they play and we are watching they're every move. They don't have the Republican Administration to hide behind anymore to explain their needless spending spree! Remember they now have control of both houses of Congress and the White House. Who's the scapegoat now?
Absolutely! They should not only cancel the jets, the congressman and senators who put it in the bill in the first place should cancel their terms. The American people are sick and tired of Congress acting as though they have a personal blank check backed by taxpayers dollars to pay back fat cats who gave them campaign contributions.
Absolutely! They demanded the car companies to cancel their orders due to their financial debt. Why would Congress think they should not abide by the same rule of thought? Oh, because they are hypocrites!
In plain English – ABSOLUTELY!
The politicians who added the jets to the defense budget apparently owe the auto industry execuitives an appology for flying in corporate planes since they seem to subscribe to the old cliche "What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander." Actually, I think the order should be cancelled and members of Congress can fly commercially just like they expected the auto execs to do. This is just another example of packing the pork in when they think no one will notice. So much for reforming the way Congress does business and eliminating all the pork, Oh well ...... didn't really believe them when they said it during the campaigne anyway.
I agree, what's wrong with commercial airlines.
Yes, they should cancel it. Leadership is about priorities — it is about a stewardship. These men and women have seem to lost their senses. They need to use the same mode of transportation that millions of small business owners and emplyees use every year. This absolutely shows a complete lack fo common sense on their part.
Jack,
We will let them buy the planes if they agree to get on and keep on flying till they run out of fuel. They better cancel the order or look for a new job.
Are you kidding? Why do they not have access to the airports all of us have to use? Talk about needing a reality check!
yes Jack,they should cancelle it.. Take the 550 million , to the health care plan.. That would be part of the money for that bill! But, that would be too easy right?
Since WHEN does the Military fly around in PRIVATE JETS???
Members of Congress need to learn the word "COACH"!!!
Hello.........Yes they should cancel the order...I can't believe that Washington can keep stopping to new lows...no words can even come close to expressing the frustration of the general public. I think we should vote them ALL out.
Kim
Kansas City
Of course they should cancel the order. Let these over spending do-nothings thumb to where they are going. That is if anyone will pick them
up. Let them pay their own freight like we have to.
Yes. The jet order should be cancelled. Congress has enough perks. Travel like the rest of us. Have they tried to save by buying from Sara Paling on E-Bay?
Are you serious? How does $550M for 8 jets make sense let alone save money? I have a bridge in NY I want to sell them too! Oh yeah it will save them money in the long run too! Wink Wink! 😉
Hey Jack
The crooks on the HILL will just say they are just trading they're trading cash for clunkers. What do u expect when they cant even pass a healthcare bill for those who need it the most the same people who helped them get elected....
HOOAH for the Pentagon, lets hope they stand up for the constitution more often and do not let congres run this country in to a marxis society
Let them fly on Continental/Express...maybe a taste of real world travel to Rochester, Minn. will help then spend less!
Yes, Yes, Yes...they should cancel the jets for congressmen to fly around in. From what I see, half of the trips they go on serve no purpose for the good of the people. The congress should be the one to start cutting costs right at the heart of our government. This starts at little things like clerical supplies to curtailing trips that are not necessary for lawmaking.
Yes, they should cancel this order but what's the trade-off if they do.
Hey Jack,
Yes.
Oh by the way, how about stating the names of these weasels so we know who to vote out in their next election.
The purchase of these planes should be cancelled.
C. Wohl
Lago Vista, Tx,
Absolutely! I don't really think this is a question, more of an announcement that everyone should hear......
Out of Touch just doesn't say it Jack, more like on a different planet if they think they need private jets instead of riding coach/first class with all the rest of us. There is no doubt that senators need to travel, but if they want to fight the image that they understand "normal" Americans.
We got into this financial mess by, buying homes we couldn't afford and refinancing these "Piggy Banks" over and over again. And now our Royality are going to buy jets we really can't afford. Besides, SOUTHWEST and others have many flights in/out of D.C. everyday and all parts of the U.S. If these Airline's are good enough for me/we it's good for our hired help. hint for your flight: The person sitting next to you, don't tell them your "real" job, have a nice flight.
Of course it should be cancelled. The American people have cancelled half of our lives and we are traveling coach.
They must be out of their mind!
Oh good grief, what next? Maybe they should go with the "cash for clunkers." I, frankly, give up. There seem to be no moral stop-gaps anymore. I do not want anything to do with any of congress ever again. I probably will not vote again.
Hey, a plane is a plane is a plane, but a game is a game. I think they are out of their game playing minds! They should add in a new submarine for their underwater meetings while they're at it!
-Joe
We talked about this in my government class today. Can you say waste of money?!
How about this? The congress members can travel like regular Americans on our airlines. The airfares are the cheapest in history and it would help maintain peoples confidence in the TSA and contribute to the economics of a troubled industry.
Otherwise the old(er) airplanes they are flying in are a-ok.
Yes!!!!!! Cancel the order! Please everyone vote these people OUT!
I don't have a problem with the military buying jets for military purposes. What i do have a problem with is congress members using those jets especially if they use them for personal reasons. Take the 15 percent usage by politicians out and buy the jets the military says it needs. The politicians can ride the bus for all i care.
NO!!! – They are not our royal family, they are not our dictators – they work for We the People! They should hop on commercial flights just like we do – and they should be required to pay for the flight out of their office budgets – which should be capped (hey, another possible cap and trade opportunity) – the likelyhood of this happening is about the same as them putting themselves under the same health care plan they want to throw on the rest of us.
Cancel or throw them out of office. Or, actually cancel AND throw them out of office.
No. Until you've actually done some reporting to see if the claims of cost-savings are true or false you shouldn't be asking the question. A better question would be whether members of Congress need to use - or should use - military planes at all. If they weren't filling half their weeks flying off to fund-raisers they might be able to save the $550 million and a few hundred million more.
yes, congress should be canceling that order. while they're wasting money on things that won't help anybody but themselves, they rest of us have to continue to pay through the nose. they had a hissy fit about the automakers showing up to congress to ask for a bail out in their lear jets and then then turn right around and buy a group of the same high end planes. shame shame shame. don't think that nobody's paying attention to what you all are doing in our name.
Are they going to pay Gulfstream the same way they are with clunkers ? Like not pay ? Cancel , impeach authors of bill !
Simply said, "YES!" What are they thinking? The Town Hall protest may be un-American but the idea of buying million dollar luxury planes at this particular time is just plain STUPID. And I refuse to apologize.
Jack, why don't they just impound the jets from the Wall
Street financial giants? Doesn't the government own at least part of those jets anyway??? Or buy them from Wall Street and get the financial giants a leg up on the bonuses for Christmas this year!
Don't waste your time talking to Congress, ask the President to veto the bill, since they act as if they don't know anything about the healthcare bill they are writing in the House and Senate, which is making the President do all the hard work. Congress is just down right lazy, they can't fight for anything that does not benefit them staying in office!
please post the names of all these reps who endorse this so we the people can unendorsed them at the polls
Hey Jack, here's a thought. Don't buy jets. Buy tickets and make them coach, not first class. Let them stand in line, go through security, sit with their knees in their face, pay for water, and learn what it's like for the rest of us!
As unpalatable as it is given the current financial situation, it might be a bad idea to cancel the order. Eventually, the old planes will need to be replaced. Like a new car, its expensvie at first, but cheaper to operate and maintain a new plane than a 20 year old "clunker". On top of that, purchasing the planes now may be less expensive than in the future. Finally, the purchase (although a drop in the bucket) will help stimulate the economy by giving workers in the aircaft manufacturing industry work and jobs.
yes cancel them. let congress pay their own way, just like the rest of us.
I believe cancelling the $550 million order is a must. There is no point to uprgrade to new jets when the ones they have work just fine.Im a pilot and i fly a 20 year old plane and it works just fine. So what if there not the best of the best. They work and thats all that matters. That money needs to go to something else that has more meaning.
I think it’s a little hypocritical of congress to spend all that money on jets when only a few months ago top executives from GM were criticized for flying in similar jets.
Jack,
This is a no brainer! Of course they should cancel the order. Have they lost their mind?! How about they fly around on Jetblue like the rest of us... I am okay with Congressmen getting some extra leg room for an extra $30 bucks.
Terrence, Chicago, IL
By all means, buy them.
I don't get food stamps, I don't get an extension on unemployment compensation and I don't get my job that was sent to China back either. Buy the planes, save me a seat, and fly me out of the country.
i do not understand how they can spend the tax dollers on planes when the economy is so jacked up, maybe this is the reason the economy is jacked up.
Unbelievable! Hello, are they really understanding the state of our economy? When will they wake up and smell the coffee! Yes, they need to cancel this and stop spending money like it is growing on trees!
YES. Total waste of money. Take public transportation like the soldiers do. Business class would be OK, or they can pay for upgrade to 1st class. No use of corporate jets either. Let them experience America as it is and perhaps they will work harder to make thing better for all of us.
Try living like the rest of us do, without 'perks' and we would see voluntary term limits with them fleeing a sinking ship instead of spending a lifetime in "public service" without ever meeting the public.
Members of Congress flying to locations not served by commecial flights should use military transportation.
This people are supposed to be working for us. If I have to fly commerical, then they should too. They are no better then the rest of us and, where they believe it or not, their time is not more valuable then ours. Our tax money should not be used for this stupidity.
Why do they need to spend so much money on planes and travel, when with our technology they can spend an eighth of that money on secure video chat lines, and then they also won't be spending so much time on travel and on important issues, time is money and as it appears they just love wasting it.
Jack,
In an economic time like this, we cant keep giving a bad image to business jets. They are a critical part of governament officials business and to the business of those CEO's who fly in them that the media rips on. They are American made planes, and produce a lot of American jobs, and actually have few emitions. If we are going to spend 3 trillion on governement helthcare, whats another $550 for something that will actually come in handy.
Yes.they don't need new planes, americans need jobs and health insurance. I thought obama said everyone needs to make sacrifices but the big dogs aren't, they are treating themselves while hard working americans can't make ends meet and people are going homeless by the day! I guess this is the change americans voted for!
Once again our politicians are thinking about themselves. These people have no common sense and no souls. We Americans need to vote out every incumbent in office – once they start realizing there is no job security for ANYONE, maybe they'll think differently about how they make their decisions.
Who do these people represent anyway? We the people, paid or will pay the taxes that fund nonsense decisions that enrich corporations.
Democracy is a myth and it's time for we the people, to throw these vulgers out! Get involved . . . let's wake up!!
Just seems as though they are blind to our current economic crisis. It's no wonder we have let our CEO's receive huge bonuses and will not regulate the future financial companies along with others. Government acting like the big brother and setting a bad example for the CEO's and rest of America. They're hippocrates.
Nice hint Jack, I'm really glad every two years we get to replace these Oink Oink Congressmen. I believe if the congressmen involved in this part of the defense bill don't cancel this request, they will be on thier butts with no job like everyone else. I hope they get some sense and learn to fly like everyone else...COACH!
The current planes are too old? Ask Southwest and the few other successful airlines how long they keep a Boeing flying. I recently toured the Miramar Marine Base in San Diego – now those are old planes. Some of the F-18's that they fly off carriers are 15+ years old. Congress had no problem sending those pilots into a war with old planes. Get a clue congress! Royalty in this country ended in 1776. Be happy with the "old" planes before we make you start flying commercial like the rest of us.
No, we should spend the 1/2 billion on something more vital than more airplanes for use by members of congress. Members of congress should fly commercial flights, just like you and I. I'm sure the the commercial air carriers would appreciate the xtra business.
The house should call this program "Cash for Clunker Jets" and order 435 of them, one for every congressman. As long as the new jets have a better gas mileage than the old ones!
Jay
Belmont, CA
Well Jack, I this is the way congress demonstrates that Forrest Gump was a lot smarter than many gave him credit for being when he said, "STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES".
of course it should be approved...
didnt you just see that segment,
where a drone or a jet took out those stragglers planting a ied.
a advanced F22 or a smarter PREDATOR drone is excactly what we need. take them out, that is whats up.
absolutely cancel those babies! Are the common folks the only ones suffering in this economy? The goverment bigwigs should walk a mile in our shoes.
Congress definitley needs to get more in touch with the real world. They should absolutely cancel this order and should take a closer look to all of their overspendin! We could probably eliminate half or more of our debt by just reducing the governments unnecessary spending!!
Jack....What is the difference....Congress does what it wants, when it wants expecially when it benefits them....This Democratic Congress forgot that the Constitution reads: We the people......not We the government......Get rid of Obama and all the Democrats in Congress and start over before this Country goes BROKE.......
Ron Kent
Maui, Hawaii
Lets cancel congress for being so insensitive.
Absolutely cancel this order. Its unbelieveable that the these "public servants" can't use public transportation as do the people they work for...that would us the taxpayers! Maybe if they did, and if they were part of social security and had the same health care benefits that the people they supposedly work for have, they would be more inclined to fix the inherent problems with all of the above.
Yes, the order should be cancelled. When the President canelled his fleet of new helo's. What make them think they are better that him.
Jack, No they shouldn't and here's why I work in the industry and these days of energy savings attempts buy us teh constituents isn't being copied by our representatives.
Citigroup waa dead wrong about paying 50 million for a French Dassault Falcon 7x becauee for 65% less and 45% additional less operating expenses long term they could'nt have purchased a Cessna Sovereign at 16 -18 million that will do the job they need done without the over-extravagance.
THE SAME IS TRUE AGAIN NOW !! I WORK IN THE INDUSTRY ARE ARE VERY MUCH FAMILIAR WITH WHATS' WRONG AND HOW WE GOT THIS BAD RAP. the problem isn't buying the NEEDED JETS , The PROBLME IS OVER BUYING EXTRAVAGANCE!!!
This is why President Obama did the right thing with Citigroup and the F-22 programs , He never said don't buy HE SAID WE DON'T NEED THAT MUCH COSTS when we can buy F-35s for far less money , the SAME IS TRUE WITH the jets you are speaking of now JACK!!
Jack
Of course they should cancel those planes. Anyone with half a brain would know that. It just goes to show how stupid the people are that we sent to Washington. We elect an honest President and he has trouble with the others who are filled with greed.
Nan from Florida
Why is it Congress can't figure out spending needs to be cut! Just exactly how long will it take to come out on top in the savings they claim these jets will create? Why don't they publish those figures so we can really see the benefit, if in fact one exists. I think it does not and this is why they don't. If they have done their homework on this as they have on other bills that get passed (ie., very few read them in full, if any, and they would fail the homework assignment), this is most likely a total waste of MY tax dollars.
I think that the smarter way for them to have framed this spending was as support of the manufacturing industry. An order like that does insure jobs in the aero industry. Saying that their defense/reasoning is "rationalizing" is an editorial over step and doesn't set the appropriate tone for a cost benefit analysis. Holier than thou in terms of government spending is a precarious path to take and doesn't do Americans any favors.
Yes, Jack! I believe that the House should cancel it order for the new jets. The old jets should be more than enough for these people. It is not like they are worth it anyways, they are not doing anything to help the people that voted them in.
I say let them fly commercially in first class, they are not that important to be flying in anything more than that. I would not recognize a majority of them if I saw them and if I did, then I would not want to waste my valuable time by talking to people that are a lot less aware than I am.
They need to learn to stop wasting the taxpayers money. It would be a nice change of pace if they adopted accountability, responsibility, ethics, and good wholesome values that would benefit everyone.
Paul Rogers
Walker, Michigan
It is time for the American people to clean house and send representatives to Washington that serve the people and not them selves. This issue clearly demonistrates the total lack of responsibility on the part of the current elected officials and their appointed bag men to the needs of the people in this recession period.
Of course they should. The disconnect between Congress and what's really going on is astounding.
And here's to 4 more years, Jack. Thanks for telling it like it is.
Why not use that money to create a "cash for fliers" program. Let government subsidize an industry while the public cashes in on newer, more efficient jets.
is this not the perfect example of the pot calling the kettle black? when gm ecx.flew in on their private jets congress had a hissy fit.they were spending their money that they didn't have,now they want to spend my money that we dont have.if they can fly in in luxury jets why cant we have healthcare.
Perhaps Congress should consider flying Southwest and Congress could consider it a contribution to the sagging airline industry profit by flying our commercial airlines. There are always alternative solutions rather than spending $550 Million that taxpayers have worked hard for.
Yes, they should cancel that. They should use the bus to go wherever they want to go. Most people are tighting their belts with money. They should do it too.
Members of Congress traveling to locations not served by commercial airlines should use military aircraft. The U.S. should not have a fleet of special luxury jets for members of congress and other VIPs.
At least they are built in the USA. The great state of Georgia, right here in Savannah. Go USA
This is the epitome of arrogance. They vote themselves raises, have elite health care which we can't get, and now they can't ride in the same air planes that we do. This is another item which proves they really don't care about the American people, just keeping themselves in office so they can enjoy their special privleges. I say vote them all out and start over.
Absolutely, it should be cancelled. I called my Congressman's
office to ask how he voted on the Appropriations Committee, but
they said those votes were not disclosed, and my
Congressman was in Alaska, so they could not ask him. I then
e-mailed the question, and of course, no answer yet. What a
rude awakening this has been, and I am happy to see that
someone, somewhere, is seeing this for what it is. Scratching
each others backs while "Rome is burning". Thanks, Jack, for
not letting this thing die!
We don't need any more aircraft! I'm a retired USAF aircraft mechanic, and I can attest to us having enough aircraft. If the military uses the aircraft more often, then utilize military aircraft to fly our VIP's in. It's just that simple. If it's a "so called" matter of time to buy the aircraft, we can obviously see this is NOT the time to spend money. We have enough finances going everywhere else. I thought we were trying to be more frugal with our Nation's finances.
My only hope is that they get stuck on the tarmack for 91/2
These people should be ashamed of themselves. In the shape we're all in right now; they want private jets to add to their perks. While the rest of us are struggling, losing jobs, homes and savings, they want private jets. GIVE ME A BREAK and tell them to get real!!!!! YEAH! CANCEL THE JETS!!!!
YES! Fly commerical like everyone else.
Jack
Why not treat congress the same as they are treating the plublic.
Let them trade in there old gas burning planes and we will give them $4500.00 and then they can pool there money each month and make the payments.
Thanks
Larry Parish
Vincennes, In. 47591`
The house makes crucial decisions on behalf of our whole country, yet, what is disburbing, the majority cannot be reached on the web,
except for people in their districts.
They can buy 20 jets but will not allow the American people to
voice their opinions to them
Jack, this problem can be solved by a new cash for clunkers old jet program. Think of all the money that will be saved and the great stimulus to the economy.
Cliff West Lafayette Indiana
If the question is When will they buy the jets, the time is NOW! Do you know how many people will be employed building these aircraft? Do you realize how many subsidiary businesses will have a better bottom line because of this contract to build these planes? Do you understand how important our immediate and flexible response time is to critical events in the world. If in fact the military is using these planes 85% of the time it is a no brainer. I think this is what we are asking for when we talk about a stimulus bill. Put the money into the economy in a way that is beneficial to a large number of people.
All but one airplane should be cancelled as requested.
No one is against the poor having healthcare, that is what Medicare is for....and believe me those that don't work and can work know all the "freebies". Those that are truly disabled should be helped and believe they are. Fraud needs to be addressed, more compeition in policies across State lines, frivolous lawsuits stopped and the graft from Congress.
There is about 15 Million truly in need of help: The others are young people who refuse Ins, illegal aliens who should not be in this Country, some who won't sign up for medicare or any help for some reason. The 47 Million number is a scam on the USA Citizens who work.
Joan B
WI
Absolutely; Not only should they cancel the order they should fire the purchasing agent. Who's the idiot that agreed to pay $220M for 4 planes, and then upped it to $550M for 8 planes. Maybe thats how we spend so much money, why buy 4 when you can buy 8 at more than twice the cost, sounds about right.... And since when does a private jet cost $68M... Are we buying them commercial airliners or what!?!
Yes Jack I would say that congress should cancel it's 550 million worth of jets or any other such frivolous packages for the already prospering. My sincere hope and advice would be that President Obama, Geithner and all else with any control over where the rest of that stimulous money goes watch out for the alreaddy fattened pigs at the troth to see that they don't scarf up the bulk of what hopfully is more intended rather to the the the bulk of the truely needful like all of us that are out of paying jobs while yet faced with the rising cost of living.
How many Americans will be out of a job if the contract is canceled, Jack? How many will be employed if the jets are built?
So, while most Americans struggle to keep their homes, jobs and financial stability, congress has found ways to waste our tax dollars. Way to go!
Further more, maybe members of the of congress should experience the dilemma that travellers face, when they are forced to sit on the tarmac, like the passengers on flight 47 did.
use it for war planes....
not civilians planes.
they could use a bus.
And the politicians wonder why we question their ability to design and implement efficient and effective healthcare reform. They assume we are so ignorant and uninformed that they can slip in half a billion in unnecessary spending and we won't notice. Our politicians are not held accountable for their actions except every 2 or 4 years and they hope we will forget their previous record in office.
I work for one of the aerospace companies that manufactures the engines and avionics and I can tell you YES the new jets are cheaper to operate, they are better on gas and cost less to maintain.
Why is it the Banks and autos have wasted BILLIONS of tax dollars but we can buy a few jets to help the Aerospace industry?
Yes Jack they absolutely should and maybe take a look and follow in the footsteps of their Vice President and try to stay in touch with their people by using the train or any public transportation they choose. I think the days of livin lush on the back of the American taxpayer is over
Congress is like the shop-aholic who buys something they don't need just because it is "on sale" and declares "look how much I saved buying this". It is an oxymoron applied mostly by morons.
Just have them contract Haliburton to cart them around the world. We already pay them far more money to bring a Christian Crusade to the Middle East, might as well ad "VIP Transport" to the list.
Your President canceled his new hellicopter why would congress pass that and noone cares if the American people have health care to go see a doctor or go to emergancy without getting a bill. And Canada's health care is not just paid by government the people pay taxes out of their pay for it and their taxes pay for the people not working just like the pensions. Our generation paid out of their pays for the older generation. And every Canadian has equal health care.Accept the ones that don't want to wait and go pay separate in your country.
Noreen
I'm guessing the average age in Congress is around 75 and maybe they have already forgotten that they threw a fit when the auto execs flew in with their corporate jets. Do they think they can get away with such a grand order of new jets without any of us taxpayers knowing? Maybe the President should handout some herbal supplements in order to jog their memory.
You betcha Jack! We are all tightening our belts, they should too.
Use the old planes, take less trips, stay home and have more townhall meetings. A 10% voluntary cut in pay would be nice too.
Cancel the order and have the GAO investigate each Senator and military official that voted yes. They're all out of touch w/ reality. They should all ride Space-A on a 30 year old Air Force C-17.
Looks like another knife-jab to the taxpayers ribs Jack. I know, how about we build these House representatives a great big plane that only flies one-way out of this country? I hear Tiberia is nice this time of year.
YES! Definitely.... Senators and Congress can fly commercial airlines like the rest of us do, and that way, they will be helping the Airline Industry like they helped the Auto Industry, Wall Street the Banks etc, etc. Or is the Stimulus Money designed only for certain industries?
Jack, saying that Congress would only use these planes 15% of the time isn't rationalization ... it's a bald face lie. Have you ever known the Military to fly in a Gulfstream? Not. They (the bigwigs) use those nifty fighter jets that cost a billion each!
Hurst, Texas
Buying 4 will result in lower costs
Doubling to 8 saves even more $
Continue doubling and
eventually I will save enough money to
get the first 4 for free.
Sounds like my wife
If they vote new jets for themselves, then I propose a limo for every citizen of the United States to get around in, along with a chauffer, life time maintenance and gas. Were these members of Congress ever taught "morality", "dignity", and "humility".
Miami, Florida
NO! Don't cancel the orders. The current leader set is pushing everyone to strive to be green, more effiicent, and keep American jobs. Why in the world would we start micro manageing business as usual and keeping the taxpayer money tied up in more bureaucratic blunders trying to be PC. This ambiguous behavior of the Democratic Leadership is to be expectecd and should not be at the expense of the Aircraft manufacturing indusry.
Shame on them, how dare they, wanting jets to fly around in. we can't even afford to buy gas for our cars, I wonder what planet they come from? they aren't only deaf, they are heartless, egotistical and SELFISH
Dear John
Here we go again ! States are taking money away from food banks, schools, cutting food stamps, our first responders may get job cuts.
So what does the house want to do get 8 jets. What planet do they live on? Surely not this one they need reality check. We have to!
Let them take coach, stand in line, get searched like the rest of us.
Then they can really be "in touch" with their constituents. OR let them hitchhike, I don't care, with all their hot air maybe a balloon? NO PLANES.
At a time where many americans are losing their homes, struggling to take care of their families, and crying over their investments ~ I believe this is a wrong move, at this time, by capitol hill. Thank you to those few senators that are still trying to protect the American people from frivolous spending by their peers.
Why do they even have the RIGHT to purchase these jets? Enough of these people giving themselves what they want at OUR expense. We the people should be voting on what benefits they do and do no receive.
it wasnt congress that criticize the big three for flying on private jets.
this is called HYPOCRISY
I think it should be cancelled and everyone take commercial travel to help stimulate the economy. If planes are safe enough for us to fly then they should be safe enough for them to fly.
It's a no brainer! These planes are not a necessity, and in a time of belt-tighting we should not purchase new planes for VIP's. They should have to live like their constituents. Which I am concern have to watch their spending. The government has to take control and learn how to manage our money.
Jack ,
Yes, in fact H.... yes, they should kill the bill for new "VIP" jets and also the $400M for the new Presidential Helicopter fleet, the $674M for Cargo Jets that the Pentagon says are not needed, and an unspecified amount for the alternate engine for F35 Joint Strike Fighters the the Pentagon says is a waste of money. Keep up the heat
Given all the enormous justifiable spending that is already taking place in an historically bad economy...shouldn't congress at least try to show some restraint when it comes to spending that isn't absolutely necessary? It's a method I have to apply to my own purchases, but then, I don't have an endless line of credit whith the chinese government!
Hi there jack i was just watchin your show, I think that they should cancel the order for the new planesand vote out the congressmen tht tell us that by buying these new jets we will save money. but why in the hell do you wanna buy these when we are in a recesion. it comes down to our president and we are not in a recesion and the government is scaming us. or we are in one but wanting to waste money by buying crap we dont need. i say open the vote to the public to vote on if the congress should by these new jets. and then vote out the congressmen that think we should buy them.
Didn't the Gov of Alaska have a nice jet for sale about a year ago likely paid for by Federal Tax dollars? $60M ( for 1 jet) will get you a world class charter service for 5000 6 hour flights at $1500 – $2000 / hour. That's good enough for the chuckleheads in Congress that don't know when to put the Federal AMEX card away.
Yes Yes Yes they should cancel for Americans are done paying for congress who take their bribes from corporations..let their bribe money to kill Health care reform pay for their own jets.
Yes. However go further in your reporting and tell us who (names)proposed this and who seconded and/or supported this, not "Those who approved this extravagance". What bill was this added to and how?
Considering all of our indebetness, Congress still doesn't 'get it' regarding our need to conserve. Cancel the aircraft procurement!!
Jack;
I say let them buy the new jets, & KEEP THEM, if the Leadership(?) of The House & Senate promise to get on them & FLY, FLY, FLY All The Way Home, NEVER to RETURN to WASHINGTON D.C. Again!!!
BUT they MUST take President (LOL) Change with them.
And Jack I'm a 59yr old, life-long, card-carrying Democrat who is ASHAMED to admit that MY Party is WORSE than the Republicans they
replaced, as it turns out under FALSE PRETENSES.
If Members of Congress could be seen and photographed with some jazzy new biz jets there is some slim possibility their approval rating will climb back up somewhere in the "ben laden range". Congress isn't "too big to fail" but "what the heck?" they need an "image bailout" and the new jets can't do any damage the clowns haven't already done to themselves.
Looks like Nancy Pelosi didn't take being told no personal jet when she was made Speaker of the House so well and is determined to get her own private mode of transportation, to match her very conmfortable taxpayer-afforded salary.
Don't we already have planes for transportation – C-130's etc. that can transport government officials???? I'm sure we have planes that have been mothballed in the desert of Nevada that can be rehabed for far less than the Gulfstream G5's.
If not, put then in the economy section like the rest of us. Or if they want First Class, make them pay an upgrade. When I travel that is what I have to do. Maybe they can earn frequent flyer points like the rest of us.
IF they are really to replace existing more inefficient jets AND they have actually performed a cost-benefit anayisis and it shows a savings of taxpayer money then yes they should. My suspicion is though is they just want plances like the Pentagon requested – then they should be ashamed & pull the extra jets out of the bill. What out of touch BONEHEADS we seem to have in Congress to slide something like this into a bill. It makes me sick.
Owning the jets will be cheaper than chartering flights in the long run. Doubling the order because they are built in your district is where this issue ran off of the rails. If we need them, we should return to the original allocation.
Yes, cancel them and use the money for something else.
ABSOLUTELY CANCEL THESE ORDERS! And yes, I'm yelling! The arrogance and pomposity of these elected officials are getting on my very last nerve! I am all for a grassroots movement for a MASS IMPEACHMENT!
No, plain and simple.
Absolutely cancel the order for the planes. If congress needs to get around the country, just use some of that hot air we have been hearing lately to fill up a garbage bag and jet off whichever way the wind is blowing that day (the same way most of them cast their votes anyway).
I am tired of politicians who can't seem to do the right thing for the country and vote FOR the people. It's about time someone picked a fight, even if we can't win it.
The order for new jets should be cancelled. Instead they should invest in fractional ownership, with an organization like Citation Shares or the like. Many private citizens & public figures who find it inconvienient to fly commercial enjoy luxury aircraft at their disposal at a fraction of the cost. Without labor costs for crews, maintainance and other burdens, imagine the savings!
Why arent the names of these committee members, who voted to add the 2 planes, posted? Why not post a list of all the congressional types, who used the other plane, for any and all travel?
That's not top-secret information. Is it?
Jack….What is the difference….Congress does what it wants, when it wants expecially when it benefits them….This Democratic Congress forgot that the Constitution reads: We the people……not We the government……Impeach Obama and all the Democrats in Congress and start over before this Country goes BROKE…….
Ron Kent
Maui, Hawaii
HOOOORAY...someone finally brought this..Congress' dirty little secret...why they need MILLIONS of dollars of jets...so they can go off on their"fact finding junkets"...give me a break.....hypocrites...after grilling the Auto Execs for flying to DC in their jets......we just do not have the money and they need to get in touch.....please keep this story alive...I am just outraged!!!!
If the congress really wants to stimulate the economy, take the 550M and devide it up to all the 136M taxpayers in the U.S. What would you do if the IRS sent you a check for $4.04 dollars?
Of course the order should be canceled (for the private planes). Whoever thought of this needs to be on unemployment! None of them need to be jetting around – just try to think like responsible adults, for a change. Such lunacy is unbelievable.
Current models, if properly maintained, last for 30 years. While new aircraft will have better fuel efficiency, maintaining the curent planes is much more cost-effective!
This administration is like a kid in a candy store, gimme, gimme, gimme.
Our government officials, responsible for our safety, for running our government, need to travel. Flying first class on commercial airlines is more expensive and less efficient than the cost of private air-craft. That's a fact. Of course we understand that the initial expense is a bit shocking, so it's an easy political hot button.
Another important point is that aviation is one of the most wonderful heritages Americans share. From Kitty-Hawk to NASA, to the 787 dreamliner, America has been on the forefront. Now many manufacturers are in trouble. They are not asking for any government bail outs, but they could however use the orders. Orders that will help business, government and all of us. Lets stop demonizing an industry that gave so much to this nation.
I'm not sure what planet these people live on! Their reasoning sounds like the cash for clunkers!!!! Flying a scheduled airline { even 1st class} may , just may, give them some insight as to the pain and hopelessness that most taxpayers are now going through!! God help us!!!
Thousands of people work for Boeing and corporate jet manufactuers. Thousands of people also work in the hospitality industry. As the government and corporoate america cuts back on spending that the public my deem excessive (jets, conferences/corporate retreats) its puts the jobs of thousands of American futher at risk.
Yes they should block the excess spending of 500 million for these jets. What, are the congressmen and women afraid of flying first class with the people they are going to raise taxes the most on?
Hello...
Happy business birthday to both of you. Nice job and yes, another four or more years would be great.
No matter what country you live in, you always seem to find this type of overspending. Why so many jet anyhow. Is there not enough commercial aviation transportation in the United States?
Are their flights so secret that they have to take private transportation? How about extending employment insurance benefits (once more). How about creating more jobs, build homes for humanity.
Well, I better get going for the time being.
Thanks
Luc
Yes Jack it time to go commercial with the rest of us. I know there are times when they need to get somewhere immediately. I don't think they need these jet to accomplished their mission,
David
Jack,
Its hard to believe the question is even being asked, after the car company executives were berated by the very same senators who are now proposing this perk for themselves. The hypocracy is truly unbelievable! I thought we were trillions in debt...
The new jets need to be looked as as a business case, not more political case. Should we not be replacing 8 MPG vehicles with 30+ mpg vehicles. I rest my case.
Yes, they should cancel it. It seems every time we discuss reduced cost, the congress seems oblivious to the issue. Let them fly coach, but cost justify the travel in the first place
You betcha! Cancel those plane. Adding the 4 more "just because" is the rationale that helped get us in the financial troubles we're in now.
Jack,
Some of the issues are not being approached. As members of Congress these people become terrorist risks when traveling, so that being said they have choosen their path as well as myself. I really think that the money issue is far from the real issue. Why do they go on fact finding trips to countries that have no assets that will help the US population. I think that the military flights that are used by active duty to travel all over the world is the method that they should be using. We as service members travel on Mach flights and they would have seats availible for the Congress personnel, including staff. Most of the time the money that is being spent is not properly tracked to make sure that the people are actually be represented.
The Dems don't know it but healthcare is already dead. the fear tactics of the Republicans party have done their damage, and succeded in making sure nothing changes again. I guess now we can save the money, while millions of Americans lose their jobs, homes and go bankrupt, becasue of the fear that was created again!
No. Actually, Mr. Cafferty, I'm surprised they're so small. I think that they're an additional plus to conducting business, briefings, meals, and 'official' hearings that can be taped and transmitted back to the Capitol WHILE IN FLIGHT. That way . . . when they arrive to a destination - they're that much MORE prepared. This IS, after all, The Congress . . . who conduct official, Constitutional, public, timely process in the interests of the People . . . AND we're knowing that much of this nation's activity impacts the world positively.
Andy of Sierra Vista, Arizona
Pls Jack ,Tell the congress to do right thing which is the health care not wasting our tax money on something that is not useful Jack , tell them to use their brain now is tough for everybody for them to be wasting tax layers money may God help them.
Like alot of issues and topics, there can often be more to the story than what you read in a headline. I do not support holding onto old planes if they are soon to become hazards or if they are in need of frequent repairs just for the sake of appearances. I do not know if that is the case here, and I dare to guess not many others commenting know for sure either. Maybe offer up reports on the age and condition of the current fleet and then we can all make more educated judgements as to whether this is actually necessary.
Where are Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid now when they should be standing up and screaming that 48 million Americans need health care more than Government Officials need private jets? Let me guess, they are over at the airplane factory choosing colors for the cabin interiors and selecting between leather or sheepskin for the seats.
Yes! So whats with Georgia getting the action? Wages are less down south, so the big shots rake in the dough, don't mean bread! Ha! ha! Is this how it works? Whats wrong with our government? Can;t they think of the people as a who;e and not sections,thats why things arn't getting done! hurray for me and the h_-___ with you . What a concept no wonder nothing gets done shame shame shame!
Anything for Prince Harry and Princess Nancy. I couldn't think of a better place to spend this amount of money! Have they ever heard of commercial aircraft?
Jack:
Absolutely, the order for the jets should be cancelled! I cannot believe the unmitigated gall of these people. Their arrogance is only exceeded by their ignorance and total lack of respect for their constituents. We need to fire the whole bunch and start over. It is most unfortunate that we allow multiple terms for Congressmen and women, when it is obvious many of them NEVER change their political views, regardless of the changing times and conditions. How have we gotten to this point...the people of our Country deserve better?
Gary,
Lexington,KY
Absolutly! They should be concentrating on Health Care Reform, and the high unemployment, and the many Americans who struggle daily for food and a roof over their heads. Congressmen and Senators should be in the mode of fulfilling NEEDS INSTEAD OF WANTS!
It would probably do the congress men and women good to stand in line at a ticket counter or to sit with real people in coach for a while. They might have a better handle on what people really think about the job that congress is doing. The same is true of health care-maybe being on the same plan that is supposed to be good for us, would actually become a reality check for them. Enough of the hypocrisy of both parties!
Congress never learns!
Let congress sit on a plane for nine hours, with a full toliet, no water, and crying babies, as the air quailty get bad every hour! Maybe then they will stop being dumb, well maybe not!
i'm not quite sure about all 3 jets,......maybe 1 or 2 .....but on to 2 other things really puzzling me, if it's true that if your happy with health care coverage you have you can keep it ,an supposedly 85 % of americans are already covered, you can also assume 5 % dont want it or can't be contacted on how to get it,are we saying the $1.3 trillion rquested by the president is just for 10% of the pop,..doesn't that seem hi ??....also to solve the oil "hedging" going on that,s driving up the price of oil ,why not just do controlled releases from the strategic reserves to drive down the price,then replenishing it with newer cheaper market price always leaving us with 700 million barrels but at a cheaper price for tax payers an consumers ????
How about congress take a regular flight on "coach" and fly back where them came from. Then send someone to Washington that is serious about this country and the challenges we face.
This really lends credibility to the fact that congress thinks they are better than the rest of Americans and can do what they want and we will just sit still and take it as business as uswual. We need to wake up and send these guys packing before they retire with billion dollar golden parachutes.
For that kind of money they could build their own plant and build them for a fraction of the cost. But that would be politicians actually making jobs and saving money. Can't have that now can we?
Fly the friendly skies like the rest of us. I know there are issues of security and I can see having a jet if you're the President of the United States but other than that? Buy a ticket on Travelocity like the rest of us and get reimbursed by your boss.
Why, oh why, can't we get anybody in office who's a normal person? Dems and Rep. BOTH need to go.
I just dont see the need to spend $550,000 on new jets at all, granted these politicans need to get around in quicker time but why do they need 8 jets Jack? This is just ridiculous and outrageous so maybe instead of getting 8 new jets why not just 1 or 2 new jets. These political cronnies in Washington all need to be voted out of the House and Senate and lets start fresh with a whole new House and Senate.
Scott Stodden (Freeport,IL)
Yes. They should cancel the order. Members of congress should fly on commercial planes like the rest of us. It would do them good to see how miserable it is to fly.
Why do they need special jets anyway? I am quickly loosing faith in
BOTH parties. They speak out of BOTH sides of thier face. Humm!
Have to remember, they ARE Lawyers for the most part.
No-Keep spending until we cant get a penny from another country-then maybe we will straighten up then as a country.This CONGRESS we have is a mess and all should be voted out of office.
Oh please, how can you even ask this question. Of course they should be cancelled. This is an administration that speaks of "tough times" and we all have to sacrifice. Please show me one way any government person has sacrificed. They continue to get raises, make sure that they are not going to have to use the insurance they want for us. Now they need jets – please. All in office, turn in your paperwork and leave – a total disaster. We continue to not listen to people or learn. We thought the last administration was bad, boy we found out – wait a minute, it can get worse, and it did.
Congress' head is getting too big. Plus you can buy repos cheap with all the chapter 11 filings.
No, They Should be allowed to do whatever they want. They are our kings and queens. We are just the peasants.
Yes it should be canceled. Would like to know how VA reps voted but they all seem to be out of the country on government jets !!!!!!
Cancel.
Where does Congress get these ideas that they are imune to a bad economy? There should be plenty of grounded airplanes from UA, AA and others they can pick up for penies on the dollar if Congress need more capacity.
Or, just fly coach like the rest of us do
If we want to subsidise jobs and profits in Georgia,then, I think purchasing the new jets for congress is a good thing;however,this appears to be a wrong time to do anything for our governmental servants even if they need the transportation. Now is the time to use the public option,fly commercial. Gene
It's really not a problem, because they will be manufactured in the U.S.
It's time to put an end to that kind of hypocrisy.
If more jobs will be created, I do not really see any problem with those jets being built or bought.
Yes they should cancelled. Spending that much money at a time like this is insulting to all the people out of work or without health insurance
Replace the order. Why not buy turboprops. They burn a fraction of the fuel and are cheaper to maintain. Some are as roomy as Gulfstreams. All for about 1/5th the price. There's some great ones made here in the USA.
If the CEO's of the major auto companies can fly coach, why can't congressmen?
Maybe if they hadn't made such a big deal about Wagoner, Nardelli, and Mulcahy taking private jets they'd have a leg to stand on here...
These fools we keep electing need to practice a little Humility, and a whole lot of budget restraint. Im all for keeping jobs,but these airplanes cost a lot of money; and benefit a priviliged few.
They should be cancelled immediately. Then they need to go back and review the transcripts of the "ripping" the Auto company CEOs got for their private jets.
We have health care costs out of control, an economy getting ready to implode and countless other issues that need to be delt with. The money they would spend on those planes should be used for programs that benifit everyone, not just themselved.
Learn to fly the "friendly skies" like everyone else.
This whole thing is disgusting. Congress continues to flaunt
their power and their we are better then you attitude.
Pelosi is suppoed to be the housue speaker? She can't put four words together without stammering and stuttering.
The B.S. that will flow ofver this issue will really be deep.
No, the jets should not be cancelled. The military spends millions every year buying outdated parts to try and fix un-safe aircraft – its like sticking your finger in dam. When these things start crashing into the ground, maybe then we'll see the point...
Is it possible, that these particular Members of Congress used to work for
AIG or Citigroup?
Utter nonsense! This is exactly why the American People feel congress is out of touch. Even now, they find ways to look even more rediculous.
Every time a politician comes out with a stupid decision like that.
Just shoot them.
Eventually, they'll get the message.
It's a no brainer!
We do it to the rest of the world.
It's time to clean up our own backyard!
Dear Jack, What is wrong with these people? Are they insane?Unemployment is staggering, millions without Health Insurance, the gap betweenthe rich and the poor is worsening, and these Bozos want to buy new jets? Can't they fly coach? What a bunch of buffoons!
I just wonder if Bush requested these planes,what would you and the rest of your Democratic media say?
Yes,...... otherwise the question "Do pigs fly ?" is yes.
(Pigs= Congress).
No wonder Congress is so out of touch
Absolutely, and they ought to go Greyhound.
Wasn't that long ago that Congress was beating the crap out of the automotive execs for arriving in corporate jets to discuss their bailout. Politics as usual seems to me. Do as I say, not as I do. Is this the democracy were are trying to export to Iraq?
Let them fly commercial; somebody has too.
They borrow money just to run the government on a day-to-day basis. Of course this order should be canceled. They don't have the money. Tell Pelosi to fly commercial and she can expense her cocktails.
I don't have a problem with the concept of govt. officials having these jets. What I have a problem with is Pelosi and others criticizing private industry for flying around in jets after taking bailout money and then turning around and using taxpayer money to buy jets for themselves. So at this moment, NO PELOSI you don't get your jets on my dime!
It's bewildering to me how people think that this is something only a democratically controlled congress would come up with. Come on... don't tell me you've forgotten the $800 toilet seats of the Reagan years?!? BOTH parties spend like crazy. BOTH parties are in it for themselves, not for us. History has proven this tenfold. Why don't you all realize this? Why are you all so loyal to your parties? Why do you continue to blame the other for things your own party has done? The Republicans AND the Democrats have betrayed us all!
Jack Cafferty –
We definitely do not need the eight jets.
Too many jets up there already, plus too expensive.
dwg
It has been well documented that Nancy Pelosi refuses to fly on public transportation or any government jet that holds less than 30-50 people although she and other Democrats eagerly villanize executives for using private aircraft paid for by their companies.
We should buy these jets to make sure that hypocrits in Washington can have dedicated government owned private aircraft for their extensive personal use to fly around their friends, family and supporters. After all, it's only a $550 million drop in the bucket for a party that wields debt in the trillions of dollars.
Why do congressman rate private planes anyway. Why do the need members of the military to feed and pamper them and their spouses.
Fly commercial like everyone else does. Wait in line take of your shoes.
Spend a couple of hours stuck on the tarmac someplace.
I'm sick of these lying hypocrites.
I don't see how Congress can justify buying 8 new planes. They are telling everyone else to cut big spending. We are in a recession.
I am also against Government run Health Care. There should be a better way to care for those who do not have Health Care. If this new Universal Health Care is so great, why has Congress said they themselves do not want to take it? It must not be very good. If it is good enough for American Citizens, it is good enough for all of Congress too.
If Congress has to have the new jets why do they have to be ultra expensive @ $65 million each, Gulfstreams and not Cessna Citations at $5 million each? The Cessnas in addition to having a lower first cost also are cheaper to fly than the Gulfstream and Lear jets and can land at airports with shorter landing strips. This is why the military likes them.
cant they take the bus
we should withhold our tax dollars, our right when being misrepresented, to stop this tyranny once and for all. the only collateral they have is our tax money they they are using to finance the world's problems!
Jenn from Stanwood, WA August 10th, 2009 4:23 pm ET
"
maybe they have already forgotten that they threw a fit when the auto execs flew in with their corporate jets. Do they think they can get away with such a grand order of new jets without any of us taxpayers knowing?"
Very well put.
The only reason these "representatives" receive compensation, is that when this form of government was formed, business/farm/ranch owners were the only people with the means to leave their business/farm/ranch and serve as their regional representative and the compensation was to allow the business to hire a replacement while they served their region. This form of representational government had no provisions FOR GREEDY CAREER POLITICIANS – thus send them packing!