Senate GOP Talks Trump Qatar Jet
Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) confirmed Monday that the U.S. Air Force is considering a practical and cost-effective use for the $400 million Boeing 747-8 jet gifted to President Donald Trump by the Qatari government. And despite the media outrage, there’s a lot more to the story than headlines suggest.
Rounds explained that the luxury jet—once used by Qatar’s royal family—could help America transition away from outdated presidential aircraft without unnecessary spending or delay. “There’s a method to this,” Rounds said in a CNN interview. “If Americans understand why this helps, I think the conversation changes.”
The current Air Force One fleet, based on decades-old Boeing 747s, is nearing the end of its life cycle. The newer jets are still in preparation, and there’s a gap that needs to be bridged. According to Rounds, this gifted aircraft is not just luxury—it’s a key tool to modernize and secure presidential transport.
“There are critical systems that need testing and integration,” he said. “Being able to transition those systems between aircraft while still flying the old models offers real benefits to national security.”
Although some of the planning remains classified, Rounds hinted at details most media outlets haven’t reported. “There’s a lot of logic here,” he added. “But I probably shouldn’t be the one breaking the full story.”
The controversy began after the mainstream media criticized Trump’s acceptance of the high-value gift. But during a stop in Abu Dhabi on a diplomatic mission, President Trump told Fox News’s Bret Baier the attacks are purely political.
“This is just another radical-left hit job,” Trump said. “The media wanted me to pay a billion dollars. I didn’t. I made a great deal for the American people.”
The jet, now being used as a temporary Air Force One substitute, will eventually be retired to Trump’s presidential library. Supporters say the decision showcases Trump’s signature deal-making skills, international relationships, and focus on cutting government waste—values many say have been missing in Washington for years.
Key Takeaway for Conservative Readers:
While the media focuses on “optics,” President Trump and his team are focused on efficiency, taxpayer savings, and readiness. Once again, he’s doing what Washington insiders won’t: putting America first.
