Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer (NY) criticized President Trump’s recent trip to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, labeling it more of a “personal business venture” than an official presidential visit.
On the Senate floor, Schumer expressed concerns, stating, “Donald Trump’s trip to the Middle East looks like a personal business venture.” He argued that Trump seems to be reaping more benefits from his dealings in the region than anyone else.
He pointed out that Trump’s son, Eric, has secured a $5.5 billion contract for a luxurious coastal community and golf course in Qatar, along with investments by the UAE in a cryptocurrency firm linked to the Trump family.
“Beach golf courses, Dubai hotel openings, billions poured into Trump’s cryptocurrency—these all enrich Donald Trump,” Schumer remarked. He questioned whether this trip serves American foreign policy or simply aims to further inflate Trump’s wealth.
In his remarks, Schumer also mentioned Trump’s acquisition of a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 from Qatar, which is intended to serve as the next Air Force One and ultimately find a place in Trump’s future presidential library.
He raised further questions about whom Trump truly represents during this Middle East visit—Americans or his own financial interests. Schumer referenced former General Pam Bondi’s role as a lobbyist for Qatar, suggesting that it sheds light on why certain agreements involving Qatar were advanced.
Schumer pledged to maintain scrutiny over Trump’s political appointment to the Justice Department until more clarity is provided regarding the deal with Qatar. He urged Senate Republicans to address the apparent conflict of interest stemming from Trump’s business connections in the countries he’s visiting.
“Republicans need to join our call for answers, or they can expect this hold on the nomination to continue. If a Democrat were involved, Republicans would be up in arms,” he stated, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
