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In a move that underscores the growing tension between House Democrats and Republicans, lawmakers have introduced a resolution that seeks to restrict President Trump’s ability to accept a lavish $400 million aircraft from Qatar without congressional approval. This maneuver capitalizes on the unease among Republicans regarding Trump’s apparent willingness to accept what many are framing as a bribe.
The resolution asserts that:
The acceptance of the Qatari aircraft without congressional consent would not only violate the Foreign Emoluments Clause but also pose serious threats to national security. This includes risks of corruption and undue foreign influence, as well as potential espionage targeting the President and other top U.S. officials.
Moreover, while President Trump suggests that this extravagant gift would lead to “big savings” that would help “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN,” the reality is that it won’t replace existing contracts for modernizing Air Force One. Instead, it will require significant taxpayer investment—potentially hundreds of millions or even billions—to retrofit this ‘gift’ from a foreign autocracy.
Therefore, we resolve that:
The House of Representatives insists that President Trump comply with the Foreign Emoluments Clause by submitting all plans regarding this aircraft to Congress immediately. Should he wish to accept the “flying palace” from the Qatari royal family, he must seek congressional consent first.
Representative Jamie Raskin remarked:
The Foreign Emoluments Clause of the Constitution is unequivocal: Donald Trump cannot accept any gifts from foreign governments without Congressional approval—this includes the so-called “Con Air One,” which is nothing less than a flying bribe from the Qatari royals.
Today, House Judiciary Democrats are formally introducing a resolution that either requires Trump to reject this Qatari aircraft or to come before Congress to obtain our approval. This is the constitutional requirement that has been upheld by previous presidents, from Lincoln to Kennedy. Congress has a duty to ensure that the presidency is not exploited for personal gain through lavish gifts from foreign leaders. It’s high time we fulfill this responsibility.
If Trump ultimately accepts this plane, it will be a testament to Republican complicity in what could be viewed as one of the most egregious acts of corruption by a sitting president.
Democrats are poised to draw Republicans into the fray of Trump’s alleged corruption. The ideal scenario would involve forcing a vote on this resolution, which would undoubtedly put Republicans in a difficult position as they defend their president against accusations of accepting a bribe.
What are your thoughts on Rep. Raskin’s resolution? We welcome your opinions in the comments below.
