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Lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle are giving mixed reactions to President Donald Trump’s intent to accept a $400 million Boeing 747-8 jet from the Qatari government as a temporary replacement for Air Force One.
Some shit you should know before you read: Yesterday on Instagram we had an article about the Qatari government’s offer to gift a $400 million Boeing 747-8 jet to the United States, intended to serve as a temporary replacement for Air Force One. Technically gifted from Qatar’s Ministry of Defense to the Pentagon—not directly to President Trump—the aircraft would be retrofitted by the Pentagon before presidential use. Trump has criticized the current Air Force One as “old” and repeatedly voiced frustration over Boeing’s delays in delivering a new aircraft, which is now not expected until at least 2027. While the Qatari jet is an ultra-luxurious model equipped with high-end finishes and VIP accommodations, it would still require extensive modifications to meet the security and operational demands of transporting Trump. These upgrades would include reinforced wiring, secure communication systems, self-defense countermeasures, and electromagnetic shielding—changes that aviation experts say could take years and cost hundreds of millions more. Trump has stated that the plane would likely be transferred to his presidential library before he leaves office and would not be used for personal travel.
What’s going on now: Lawmakers in Congress remain divided over the Qatari government’s gift, with concerns being raised over national security, legality, and ethics. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) acknowledged the delays with Boeing but stopped short of endorsing the deal, saying, “Whether or not this is the right solution … I don’t know.” Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) also voiced opposition, stating, “The plane poses significant espionage and surveillance problems,” and criticized Qatar’s past ties to extremist groups.
Democrats have been especially vocal, warning that the acceptance of the aircraft could compromise presidential security and violate constitutional limits. In a statement, Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) said, “This reckless disregard for national security and diplomatic propriety signals a dangerous willingness to barter American interests for personal gain.”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) went further, calling the gift “naked corruption” and a “national security threat.” He also called for Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify in front of Congress about how this gift would not violate the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause.
Another view: Others in the GOP have taken a more supportive stance. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AK) dismissed the controversy, saying, “Free is good,” and noted that the existing Air Force One is outdated. “If it’s legal for him to accept that gift and be able to fly on that for the next four years… I think it’s great. It’ll save us money.” Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) called the criticism “the stupidest issue,” arguing, “We have received gifts… from countries in the past. Why is it a big deal?”
