Health Secretary Uses Military Aircraft for Political Campaign Travel
Washington, Friday, 11 September 2026.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. used a military jet costing $9,000 per hour for campaign trips, contrasting sharply with standard $250 commercial flights.
Health Secretary Uses Military Aircraft for Political Campaign Travel
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. utilized military aircraft for travel across the United States, including trips connected to campaigning for Republican candidates ahead of the 2026 midterm elections [1][3]. The Washington Post reported on September 10, 2026, that four people familiar with the plan confirmed the health secretary was given access to military jets for these travels [1][6]. This development occurred as the administration increased political engagements leading into the November midterms [3].
High-Cost Travel Arrangements
Specific travel details indicate an Air Force-operated Gulfstream jet flew from the Washington area to Des Moines, Iowa, on August 17, 2026, arriving hours before Kennedy’s first event in the state [2][3]. The Defense Department charges approximately $9,000 per hour for the use of that Gulfstream jet, whereas a commercial flight between Washington and Des Moines costs roughly $250 under a government-wide program [2][3]. The cost difference per hour represents a significant increase, calculated as 3500 percent higher than commercial options [2][3].
Legal Approval and Security Concerns
Lawyers from both the White House and the Department of Health and Human Services signed off on the travel arrangements, approving the use of military transport despite federal regulations regarding non-official political travel [1][3]. Health officials stated that Kennedy’s military travel has been limited and that he still flies commercially for many trips, citing his packed schedule, high profile, protective detail, and threats against senior officials as reasons military transportation may sometimes be warranted [2][3]. It is not clear exactly how often Kennedy has traveled aboard military aircraft, though insiders noted the use has been infrequent due to added costs [2][3].
Contrast with Previous Administrations
This arrangement marks a major contrast from President Donald Trump’s first administration, where Health Secretary Tom Price resigned following scrutiny over his use of private charter flights for government travel [2][3]. Kennedy appeared during his Iowa trip with several Republican candidates, including Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Iowa Republican gubernatorial candidate Zach Lahn, while also carrying out official business [2][3]. The situation highlights growing tension between executive travel practices and political ethics compliance as the 2026 midterm elections approach [1][3].