The Trump administration’s proposal to potentially accept a luxurious Boeing 747 jet from the Qatari government as a replacement for Air Force One has sparked criticism from Democratic lawmakers and independent watchdogs, who argue that the move might breach constitutional provisions.
The White House confirmed that while Qatar has offered to donate a jet to the Department of Defense, it will not be received during President Trump’s current visit to the Middle East. President Trump has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with delays in the delivery of two upgraded Air Force One jets, stemming from a contract established with Boeing in 2018. He stated that Qatar’s offer serves as a temporary solution.
The proposed plane, valued by industry experts at approximately $400 million, could represent one of the most significant foreign gifts received by the U.S. government. The situation has raised questions regarding the Constitution’s Foreign Emoluments Clause, which prohibits public officials from accepting gifts from foreign entities.
President Trump clarified that the aircraft is intended as a gift to the Department of Defense and plans to donate it to his presidential library after his tenure. However, Columbia Law School professor Richard Briffault highlighted that if the plane is intended for Trump’s library, it would not constitute a gift to the United States and would likely violate the Emoluments Clause.
Experts like Briffault are concerned that accepting such a gift could create obligations for Trump towards the Qatari government. Jordan Libowitz from the nonprofit Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) raised concerns about Trump’s personal business interests in Qatar and the broader Gulf region, further complicating the ethical landscape.
Typically, presidential gifts are minor and handed over to the U.S. government unless purchased at market value by the recipient. The magnitude and context of the Qatari gift have provoked significant concern.
Previously, CREW sued Trump, challenging foreign government transactions at his properties, though the case was dismissed as moot post-presidency. Trump has stated that the replacement of Air Force One through this transparent transaction follows precedent set by former President Reagan.
Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Ritchie Torres, among others, have called for a thorough review of the proposed gift, citing ethical concerns and potential violations of federal regulations. However, the feasibility of halting the transaction remains uncertain, with constitutional experts questioning the extent of legislative power.
Congressman Ritchie Torres has urged government accountability offices to review and potentially reform policies to prevent the acceptance of such foreign gifts by a president, while acknowledging the limited mechanisms to enforce any prohibitive measures.
