US President Donald Trump on Monday brushed off mounting criticism over a proposal to accept a luxury Boeing 747-8 from Qatar for use as Air Force One, insisting it would be “stupid” to turn down such an offer. Facing legal and ethical scrutiny, Trump defended the potential transfer as a “great gesture” from a key US ally.
Speaking at the White House, the president dismissed concerns about the $400 million aircraft offered by Qatar’s royal family, citing frustrations with delays in Boeing’s own contract to deliver new presidential jets.
“They’re giving us a free jet,” he said. “I could say no and pay $400 million, or I could say thank you.”
Qatar quickly clarified the situation, stating that the plane is under consideration for temporary use and not a gift, and that discussions were taking place between its Ministry of Defence and the US Department of Defense.
Critics across the political spectrum raised alarm, citing the US Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, which prohibits government officials from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional approval.
Lawmakers, including Democratic Senator Adam Schiff and Congressman Ritchie Torres, called for investigations, with Torres warning it could be “the most valuable gift ever conferred on a president by a foreign government.”
Conservative commentators such as Ben Shapiro and Laura Loomer also criticised the plan, calling it inconsistent with Trump's anti-corruption promises.
The White House Press Secretary insisted that any foreign gifts would be handled in full compliance with legal requirements.
Trump said the aircraft would eventually be displayed at his presidential library, similar to Ronald Reagan’s.
The plane, a highly customised 747-8, would still require extensive retrofitting and security clearances before use.
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