Controversy grows over Qatar’s offer of luxury jet to President Trump
President Donald Trump visited Qatar today as part of his Middle East tour, amid growing controversy over the nation’s offer of a luxury Boeing 747 jet for U.S. government use.
(CNN)- President Donald Trump visited Qatar today as part of his Middle East tour, amid growing controversy over the Gulf nation’s offer of a luxury Boeing 747 jet for U.S. government use. During his meeting with Qatari leaders, the president discussed the country’s pledge to invest more in the United States. Analysts say Qatar, one of the world’s wealthiest nations thanks to its energy resources, is seeking to expand its influence in Washington.
The most high-profile gesture: Qatar’s offer to donate the aircraft to the U.S. Department of Defense for use as Air Force One. President Trump has referred to the jet as a “free” gift, but critics on both sides of the aisle say the offer raises serious concerns.
“Not only is there no free lunch, there’s no free Air Force One,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY).
Security experts and lawmakers warn that converting the jet for presidential use could cost hundreds of millions of dollars and would require extensive vetting. “We’ve got to do a careful check for security concerns,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), echoing concerns that the jet could contain surveillance equipment.
Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD) compared the situation to the Trojan Horse, warning that making the plane Air Force One-ready could be more complex and time-consuming than expected. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) suggested alternative uses, saying, “We’ve got to figure out whether it’s worth upfitting, or writing a check, selling it and helping with our debt reduction.”
There are also ethical and legal questions surrounding the gift. President Trump has said the aircraft would eventually be donated to his presidential library after his time in office.
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) offered a diplomatic suggestion: “I think the thing to do is to say, ‘Hey, we appreciate it, but there’s a lot of things you can help us out with.’”
