Do we need new USAF trainers to replace the T-38, or should we buy planes that can defend the USA that are not super expensive?

As long as it is shiny and supposedly high tech.
All branches fall into that trap.

this is one that the Big wigs are going to have to fight about and throw the Lobbyists under the Bus...

I have been around the training world for a while and I can say with certainty that we need to replace the T-38. With what...I don't know. This airplane has served the AF for over Fifty years with student pilots. Now what that means is like you want to buy a used ATV. If it has been properly maintained and used by a adult then it probably will last a little while longer with some maintenance. However, if it is ridden by a teenager or a kid for years on end then it probably needs to be replaced. It is the same for the T-38. It has been stressed (hard maneuvers/hard landings/etc) for over 50 years with students learning how to fly it. It is beat up and it just can't hang on much longer. My input is to go to a single jet airframe for pilot training from start to finish. As the student advance you can teach different tactics or procedures etc. But it would save on costs.

BTW...The Air Force isn't the only service that has made poor choices lately...the F-35 is a Joint program, Navy/Marines have made some on ship designs and weapons procurement, army on weapons and vehicle procurement. there is enough Defense oops to be spread around.