Who is Tom Price?
Tom Price, born on October 8, 1954, is a former American politician and physician who served as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Donald Trump from February 2017 to September 2017. He also served as the U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 6th congressional district from 2005 to 2017.
The Private Jet Controversy
In September 2017, Politico reported that Tom Price took at least 26 flights on private charter planes at the expense of taxpayers, costing more than $400,000. The report sparked controversy and criticism, leading to Price’s resignation from his position as Secretary of Health and Human Services on September 29, 2017.
Price’s Defense
Price defended his use of private jets, stating that it was necessary for him to travel to various parts of the country for official business and that commercial flights were not always feasible due to his tight schedule. However, his justification was met with skepticism and outrage from the public and politicians alike.
Redstate’s Role
Redstate, a conservative news website, was one of the first media outlets to break the story about Price’s use of private jets. Their article, published on September 19, 2017, detailed the flights that Price took and the cost to taxpayers.
Impact on Politics
The scandal surrounding Tom Price’s use of private jets had a significant impact on U.S. politics, drawing attention to the issue of government officials using taxpayer money for personal gain. It also sparked a debate about the need for transparency and accountability in government spending.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Tom Price’s use of private jets while serving as the Secretary of Health and Human Services highlights the importance of ethical behavior and accountability in government. The public has a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent, and government officials must be held responsible for their actions.