During a committee hearing, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry found himself on the defensive as House lawmakers criticized his use of a private jet, which emits a significant amount of carbon, despite his climate change advocacy.
Kerry disputed the claims, stating, “I just don’t agree with your facts… We don’t own a private jet. I don’t own a private jet. I personally have never owned a private jet.” He expressed frustration over the focus on his private jet use and called it “pretty stupid” to bring it up in the context of his work at the State Department.
While Kerry did not deny traveling on a private jet, his response was directed at Rep. Cory Mills, who commented on the operational team and private jet used for Kerry’s transportation.
Criticism has been directed at Kerry for advocating stringent climate change rules while utilizing a private jet owned by Flying Squirrel LLC, a charter company owned by his wife, Teresa Heinz-Kerry, in which he holds a significant financial stake. It was reported that the jet emitted around 325 metric tons of carbon since President Biden took office.
A spokesperson for Kerry stated that the family sold the jet in 2022. However, Kerry has previously defended his use of private jets, stating the need to meet people and accomplish tasks related to his climate change efforts, as well as his carbon offsetting practices.
Kerry’s comments during the hearing received further criticism from conservatives, including Rep. Andy Biggs, who pointed out his frequent use of private jets.
During the exchange, Kerry acknowledged that his wife owns a plane but asserted that he flies commercially. However, when pressed on whether he had flown on a private jet during the Biden administration, Kerry admitted to doing so “possibly once.”
Following the hearing, a State Department spokesperson reiterated that Kerry has never owned a private jet and highlighted his efforts to collaborate with major airlines on sustainable aviation fuel initiatives. They also confirmed that Kerry has no stake in Flying Squirrel LLC.