The plan of President Donald Trump to accept a luxury jet from Qatar for use as Air Force One has drawn criticism from various corners, including some of his staunchest supporters. Some commentators are urging Trump to reconsider this unusual gift, while others suggest considering how they’d react if a Democratic president pursued a similar plan.

Critics, like Daily Wire co-founder Ben Shapiro, link the potential Qatari deal with reports of influence peddling. Shapiro emphasized the importance of the administration's policy and the need to avoid such activities. Some Trump-aligned commentators and social media figures defend the plan, echoing Trump’s sentiment that only "stupid people" would decline such a gift. Meanwhile, some MAGA media outlets attempt to deflect criticism by casting doubt on media coverage of the controversy.

Many critics, including Laura Loomer, base their objections on Qatar’s relationship with the militant group Hamas. Loomer expressed disappointment, stating that it would be a stain on the administration. Fox News host Mark Levin echoed this sentiment. While the controversy has seen light coverage on Fox News, Brian Kilmeade of "Fox & Friends" questioned White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt about potential quid pro quo scenarios.

Other conservative figures, such as Batya Ungar-Sargon, described the gift as a bribe. National Review contributing editor Andrew McCarthy deemed accepting the plane indefensible, citing constitutional duty and conflicts of interest. Talk radio host Erick Erickson criticized Qatar’s status as a non-ally and pointed out Attorney General Pam Bondi's previous lobbying for Qatar, suggesting potential legal trouble for Trump.

Several Republican senators have voiced concerns regarding the Trump administration’s plan to accept the luxury jet, citing potential security and legal risks. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito emphasized the need to examine the constitutionality of the issue and check for security vulnerabilities. Sen. Josh Hawley advocated for Air Force One to be made in the United States, while Sen. John Kennedy stressed the importance of legal compliance.

A Qatari official described the transaction as government-to-government, with the Defense Department retrofitting the plane. Trump stated the jet would be accepted as a "GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE" and used transparently. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt assured that any donation would comply with the law. Ethics experts have raised concerns about violating the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause.

Some, like Sen. Tommy Tuberville, defended the move, citing potential cost savings. Sen. Markwayne Mullin dismissed the issue as “stupid,” while Sen. Steve Daines expected the Department of Justice to review the legal questions. Sen. Thom Tillis emphasized that the jet should be conveyed to the US government, not Trump personally. Senate Majority Leader John Thune remained noncommittal, awaiting more details.

Donald Trump defended the plan, stating it would be "stupid" to reject the free Qatari plane. He mentioned touring the Boeing 747-8 and appreciated Qatar's gesture. Critics warn of ethical, legal, security, and counterintelligence concerns. Trump proposed donating the plane to a future presidential library to mitigate opposition.

The 78-year-old has complained about Boeing’s delays in delivering new Air Force One planes. Concerns have been raised about the time constraints for adding full security capabilities to the Qatari plane. William Evanina suggested that checking the plane for surveillance devices would take years. Others have questioned the implications of accepting such an expensive gift.

CNN senior national security analyst Juliette Kayyem discussed the security questions surrounding the acceptance of the jet, emphasizing the legal and ethical implications.

President Trump dismissed concerns over Qatar's offer, deeming it a “great gesture.” Qatar downplayed it as a temporary arrangement, but the proposal sparked ethical and security debates. Trump has been unhappy with the current Air Force One jets and mentioned looking at alternatives to Boeing.

US House Republicans proposed repealing the electric vehicle tax credit and fuel efficiency rules, which has drawn criticism from the Electric Drive Transportation Association, arguing that this move would give competitors like China an enormous market advantage.