Democrats criticize President Donald Trump for accepting a $400 million jet gift from Qatar, while photos resurface of Democratic lawmakers enjoying an expenses-paid trip to Qatar funded by a trade group. Trump defends the gift as a temporary replacement for Air Force One.
Key Points
President Trump defends the acceptance of the gift as a transparent transaction.
Photos of Democratic lawmakers on a trip to Qatar funded by a trade group resurface.
The cost of the trip was roughly $85,000, more than half of the congressional travel expenses in 2021.
Pros
President Trump receives a gift of a new jumbo jet to be used as Air Force One.
The jet is intended as a temporary replacement for the aging Air Force One.
The Defense Department is getting the jet for free.
Cons
Criticism from Democrats over the acceptance of the gift.
Accusations of 'pay-to-play' schemes.
Revelation of Democratic lawmakers enjoying a trip to Qatar funded by a trade group.