Qatar's $400 million plane gift to Trump is likely unconstitutional, experts say - Poynter
Briefly

President Trump is facing significant backlash regarding his potential acceptance of a $400 million Boeing 747-8 airplane from Qatar's royal family, which would serve as the new Air Force One during his presidency and later for his presidential library. Critics, including members of Congress like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Robert Garcia, argue that the gift is unconstitutional and represents a troubling precedent. Legal experts support this by citing the emoluments clause, which prohibits accepting presents from foreign states without congressional consent. Trump defends the decision, suggesting it benefits the Department of Defense.
"Not only is this farcically corrupt, it is blatantly unconstitutional," Sanders wrote on X. "Congress must not allow this over-the-top kleptocracy to proceed."
"The Constitution specifically says you can't take gifts from foreign leaders," said Sen. Rand Paul on Fox Business. "It sets a dangerous precedent if overlooked."
Read at Poynter
[
|
]