As Congress reconvenes for the fall session, the comparison to students returning to school proves imperfect. Despite the return of lawmakers, reporters, and staff, the atmosphere lacks the usual new-year energy. With an election year looming, the focus is on campaigning rather than legislative work, and many lawmakers are already looking forward to recess.
The cost of presidential travel can be a substantial expense, particularly during an election year. The president’s fleet includes Sikorsky helicopters known as Marine One and custom Boeing 747s known as Air Force One. The cost of operating Marine One is between $16,700 and $20,000 per hour, while Air Force One costs approximately $200,000 per hour. The campaign is responsible for paying for the president’s travel expenses when used for political purposes. However, the line between official and campaign-related travel can be blurred during an election year. Taxpayers end up covering the majority of the cost, as campaigns typically only cover the cost of Air Force One passengers who are flying for political purposes. President Biden’s campaign has deposited nearly $6.5 million into an escrow account for travel expenses, including official aircraft used to transport the President and other officials. As of the latest available data, $300,000 has been reimbursed to the U.S. Treasury.
