"The trust of the American people has been broken, once again, by this Administration’s lack of candor and respect for the law. I am deeply disappointed and disturbed by recent allegations of unethical behavior involving firearms within the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS), including news of Director Robert Bray’s role in connection with the ongoing probe. If proven true, this behavior is totally unacceptable and it is unbecoming of any official entrusted with the duty to protect the American public. 

I am gravely concerned that Congress was not notified by the Department, TSA or the Federal Air Marshal Service about this investigation. TSA must immediately come forward and provide clear and comprehensive information so that Congress can conduct a thorough review of these alleged activities. I expect the investigation to be carried out to the fullest extent of the law.

Acquisition reform at the Department of Homeland Security is long overdue. Allegations that Federal Air Marshals may have used the agency’s federal firearms license, and their relationship with a gun manufacturer, to obtain discounted and free guns, which were then provided to agency officials for their personal use, validates the need for real reform and strengthened, centralized oversight within the Department. As Chairman of DHS Appropriations, I demand DHS hold itself to a higher standard as a leader and protector of this great nation.”