President Trump is standing by his controversial plan to accept a luxury Boeing jet from Qatar. He argues that the “free” gift would save the U.S. money, which could then be used to “Make America Great Again.”
In a Truth Social post on Tuesday, May 13, Trump stated that the Boeing 747 is a gift for the U.S. Air Force/Department of Defense, not for him personally. He emphasized that it comes from Qatar, a nation the U.S. has defended for many years.
He asserted that “Only a FOOL would not accept this gift” for the country. Trump explained that the donated jet, a Boeing 747-8 valued at around $400 million, would serve as a “temporary Air Force One” while the U.S. awaits the completion of its official jet.
During an interview that aired Tuesday night, Trump elaborated on his position. He mentioned he’s still waiting for the Air Force One jet he approved during his first term, a wait he anticipates will last another two years. Qatar offered to provide a plane in the meantime.
He claimed other countries have planes that are superior to the current Air Force One, adding, “We’re the United States of America and I believe we should have the most impressive plane.”
“Some people say you shouldn’t accept gifts for the country, my attitude is: ‘Why wouldn’t I accept a gift? We’re giving to everyone else,’” Trump said.
He added that he personally gains nothing from the gift, and would fly it as any other president would. The Qatar-gifted jet will be “decommissioned” once the U.S.-ordered Air Force One plane is ready. (The current Air Force One consists of two modified Boeing 747 planes.)
Regarding the pre-ordered jet under construction, Trump said, “We’re painting it red, white, and blue. Just like the American flag.”
Trump’s plan to accept the gift has sparked legal and ethical concerns from both Democrats and Republicans.
Senator Chuck Schumer stated he would place a blanket hold on Justice Department nominees awaiting Senate confirmation until the White House provides a full accounting of the deal.
“This is not just naked corruption, it’s the kind of thing that even Putin would give a double take,” Schumer said on the Senate floor.
Democratic Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts told TIME: “He’s going to turn Air Force One into Bribe Force One. Congress has to be involved with such a clear threat to our national security.”
Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, have also expressed concerns about the gift from the Qatari royal family and the potential high costs of inspecting the Boeing for foreign surveillance devices.
Prominent conservative voices have also criticized the President’s plan. Right-wing commentators Ben Shapiro and Tomi Lahren have both sharply criticized it, with Shapiro referencing Qatar’s relationship with Hamas officials.
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