On Thursday, Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and several Senate Democrats initiated efforts to hinder $3.5 billion in arms sales to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, as President Trump nears the end of a week-long tour in the Middle East.
Murphy introduced a couple of joint resolutions that afternoon, aiming to block $1.9 billion in sales to Qatar.
This action comes in light of mounting anger regarding the president’s intention to accept a luxurious $400 million jet from Qatar. Trump strongly defended his choice, but Murphy and other senators described it as a clear act of corruption.
“This isn’t just a gift from a generous nation. It’s, in my view, effectively bribery condoned by the US president. It feels unconstitutional and certainly not the right way to engage in foreign policy. Unless Qatar retracts their offer, I will pursue blocking this weapons sale,” Murphy stated.
Senators including Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, have shown their support for Murphy’s resolution.
The Boeing jet is intended to serve as Air Force One for the remainder of Trump’s presidency before eventually residing in the Presidential Library.
The arms deal with Qatar consists of eight MQ-9B armed drones, hundreds of tail kits, a 500-pound bomb, and Hellfire II missiles.
The agreement with the Emirates involves six CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters along with related equipment.
It remains uncertain when votes will take place on this matter, but it is expected to be submitted as a joint resolution of disapproval, compelling floor action from the Democrats.
While Republicans have not openly condemned the plane deal as Democrats have, they don’t seem eager to defend Trump either, with many expressing concerns over issues ranging from security to the practical need for the planes.
This resolution reflects ongoing Democratic initiatives regarding possible gifts. Schatz and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) attempted to advance a Trump-related measure on Tuesday but faced obstruction from Republicans.
Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has also called for political appointees in the Department of Justice to investigate Qatari foreign agents, urging transparency on any activities that might benefit the president or his business interests.
