DHS Faces Lawsuit Over $1 Billion Aviation Contract Awarded to Little-Known Firm

Breaking News: Massive DHS "Self-Deportation" Contract Challenged as Secretive and "Unlawful" A federal lawsuit has been filed against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) over a massive aviation contract worth nearly $1 billion, alleging it was awarded to a relatively new company with no federal contracting experience through an opaque and rushed process. The contract, which is part of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, has sparked criticism from rival contractors and lawmakers. The lawsuit, filed by a rival contractor, claims that the contract was unlawful, noncompetitive, and awarded without proper bidding procedures. Records obtained by Mother Jones reveal extensive involvement of a senior DHS official who formerly worked with the winning company's CEO. The contract was awarded in May 2020, despite the company having no prior experience with federal contracts. The immediate impact of this lawsuit is unclear, but it has already sparked concerns among lawmakers and immigration advocates. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) has called for a thorough investigation into the contracting process, stating that "the public deserves transparency and accountability in government contracting." Background context shows that the Trump administration has been pouring billions of dollars into DHS to fund its immigration crackdown, including funding for aviation services. The contract at issue is part of this larger effort. The lawsuit will now proceed through the federal courts, with potential implications for the future of the contract and the broader immigration policy. A spokesperson for DHS declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing ongoing litigation. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Motherjones reporting.*