GAI Vice President Eric Eggers discussed ethical concerns surrounding a planned deal in which the government of Qatar would give a $400 million luxury jet to the White House to be used temporarily as Air Force One.
The deal was legally approved by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who prior to joining the Trump administration had been a registerd lobbyist for the Qatari government.
The arrangement raises questions about the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, as the jet may go to a future Trump presidential library. Eggers noted Boeing’s delays in delivering new Air Force One planes, prompting this foreign gift. He acknowledged valid concerns about Qatar expecting favors but highlighted Trump’s transparency and focus on American interests.
Congressional oversight and historical foreign gift precedents were also addressed, alongside Trump’s broader policy moves like drug price negotiations.