On Monday, Senate Republicans expressed multiple concerns regarding President Trump’s potential acceptance of a luxurious new jet from Qatar. Their worries ranged from safety considerations to legal and ethical implications as he prepares for a multi-day trip to the Middle East.
Trump defended his interest in acquiring the new Boeing 747-8 aircraft from Qatar, positioning it as a replacement for the current Air Force One jets. He remarked that it would be “silly” to decline such an offer. However, GOP senators voiced apprehension about this arrangement due to Qatar’s regional alliances. Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.), a supporter of Trump, clearly stated, “I’m not flying on a Qatari plane. They support Hamas. I don’t know how you make it safe.” He added, “It seems nice, but I don’t know how you make it safe.” He refrained from advising Trump directly, emphasizing that flight safety was paramount.
The scrutiny comes as Trump’s frustration grows over ongoing schedule delays and budget issues with Boeing, which has been contracted to produce two new Air Force One jets. The Qatari jet, valued at approximately $400 million, is set to be transferred to Trump’s presidential library after his term, prompting immediate accusations of corruption from Democrats. Some senators also highlighted concerns about Trump operating a plane covered by a foreign government. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) suggested that ideally, Air Force One should be a U.S.-made aircraft.
Republicans were cautious in their critique but indicated broad unease. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) noted the potential implications of receiving such a gift from Qatar, questioning compliance with the gift law. Some senators, including Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), stressed the need for the Trump administration to carefully assess the legal ramifications of this deal, indicating they would be vigilant about constitutional considerations.
Democrats quickly denounced the proposal, asserting it represented blatant corruption. They raised concerns about possible violations of the Emoluments Clause, which prohibits federal officials from accepting gifts from foreign entities without congressional approval. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) condemned the move, calling it inappropriate and unconstitutional, suggesting it sends a troubling message about governmental priorities.
Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) announced a push for a vote aimed at addressing foreign gifts due to national security implications. Schatz indicated that the timeline for this effort remains unclear.
While some Republicans hesitated to commit to a position, claiming they hadn’t explored the issue sufficiently, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) acknowledged Trump’s frustrations over the Air Force One delays but remained uncertain about the appropriateness of the solution. On the other hand, several of Trump’s supporters downplayed the concerns. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) quipped about the appeal of a $400 million plane, stating, “I’m all for it. If they offer him a plane, it makes sense. The ones we have are ancient and costly to maintain.” Tuberville added, “At least Boeing made that one.”
