Trump under fire for accepting Qatar's $400M "flying palace"
Donald Trump has accepted a luxurious Boeing 747-8 Qatar aircraft valued at $400 million. This decision has sparked protests, even though the former president considered the gesture generous.
What you need to know
- Donald Trump announced that he will accept a luxurious Boeing 747-8 from Qatar, which is about $400 million in value. The aircraft is intended to replace Air Force One.
- Trump's decision has been criticized because the US Constitution prohibits administration members from accepting gifts from foreign countries.
- Controversy surrounding the gift is fueled by Laura Loomer, a far-right activist, who publicly expressed her outrage.
Why did Trump accept the gift from Qatar?
Donald Trump announced that he will accept Qatar's luxurious Boeing 747-8. The aircraft, dubbed "the flying palace," is expected to replace the current presidential plane, Air Force One.
Trump considered Qatar's gesture generous and expressed gratitude, emphasizing that he is not the type to refuse such an offer.
"I could be a stupid person say, ‘No, we don’t want a free, very expensive airplane’," Trump stated.
What are the reactions to Trump's decision?
The decision to accept the gift has provoked protests, even among Republicans. The US Constitution prohibits administration members from accepting gifts from foreign countries, making the situation controversial.
Laura Loomer, known for her radical views, criticized Trump, claiming that gifts should not be accepted from "jihadists." "I love President Trump. I would take a bullet for him. But, I have to call a spade a spade. We cannot accept a $400 million ‘gift’ from jihadists in suits," Loomer wrote on platform X.
Does Loomer influence Trump's decisions?
Laura Loomer, a far-right activist, is known for her controversial statements and conspiracy theories. Loomer claims to have a significant influence on Trump, as evidenced by her involvement in the dismissals of high-ranking officials. She was seen alongside Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign, suggesting her close relationship with the former president.
