US President Donald Trump’s plans to receive a free Air Force One replacement from Qatar has triggered a massive political row and raised various concerns, including among a section of Republicans, even as he said he would be “stupid” not to accept such a gift.
Qatar’s royal family has reportedly offered to donate a luxury 747-8 jumbo jet as Mr Trump awaits the delayed delivery of two new planes from Boeing to serve as an updated Air Force One. A new commercial 747-8 costs approximately $400 million.
The US Constitution bars government officials from accepting gifts from “any King, Prince or foreign State,” under Article 1 of the Foreign Emoluments Clause.
Mr Trump, however, responded angrily when asked if he would use the jet in a personal capacity after he left the presidency.