The White House is currently evaluating the implications of acquiring a jet from Qatar, weighing the potential risks against the backdrop of an impending storm of plane-related votes. These votes could exacerbate divisions within the GOP and provide Democrats with a potent line of attack as the midterm elections approach. Understanding how Congress could effectively block Trump’s ability to accept the Qatari plane is essential for navigating this politically charged landscape.
One strategy Congress might employ involves attaching an amendment to the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would either block or limit the proposed deal. Members of the Armed Services Committees have the opportunity to introduce these provisions during the markup sessions for their respective versions of the bill. Such amendments could significantly influence negotiations between the House and Senate as they work to reconcile their legislation. Ultimately, a chamber-wide vote could force Republicans to confront a dilemma: align with Trump or uphold longstanding national security norms. The NDAA represents Congress’ most viable avenue for implementing any measures related to Air Force One.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer recently introduced a bill aimed at prohibiting the use of foreign aircraft for Air Force One, framing Trump’s proposal as a grave national security risk intertwined with elements of corruption. This legislation would prevent the Pentagon from utilizing federal funds to purchase, modify, or maintain any such aircraft for presidential use. In addition, Rep. Greg Meeks (D-N.Y.), the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has proposed similar legislation aimed at halting federal funds from being allocated for the transfer of a foreign-owned plane to the U.S. government or Trump’s presidential library. Furthermore, it would mandate that the administration submit all relevant communications regarding the plane involving the State Department, the National Security Council, or Qatar to Congress.
While the chances of either bill advancing in a Republican-controlled Congress appear slim—unless a significant GOP revolt occurs—these legislative efforts provide Democrats with a sharp messaging tool focused on accountability.
Trump has advocated for the acquisition of the Qatari plane as a cost-effective interim solution, primarily due to substantial delays in the Air Force's program to replace the current fleet with two new Boeing aircraft. Darlene Costello, an Air Force acquisition official, informed Congress that Boeing projects delivery of the new planes by 2027, contingent upon reducing certain requirements. The White House has estimated that the replacement aircraft may not be operational until 2029, after Trump’s term concludes. Lawmakers focused on defense could push for expedited delivery of the new planes, particularly given the security concerns associated with utilizing a Qatari jet. Boeing was awarded a $3.9 billion contract during Trump’s first term to retrofit two planes; however, the company has incurred over $2 billion in losses due to the fixed-price nature of the contract.
In a related move, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) has introduced a resolution aimed at blocking a $1.9 billion arms sale to Qatar. Under the Arms Export Control Act, Congress possesses the authority to issue a joint resolution of disapproval to halt military or logistical aid to a foreign country. Although such resolutions automatically receive a floor vote, Congress has never successfully obstructed a foreign arms sale via this method. Nevertheless, lawmakers are leveraging this resolution to pressure Qatar into reconsidering its stance.
Democrats might also attempt to hinder Trump’s Pentagon personnel appointments. Recently, Schumer announced plans to impose procedural holds on all political nominees to the Justice Department until he receives satisfactory answers from Attorney General Pam Bondi, who authorized the legality of the jet deal in a memo. However, this tactic is unlikely to significantly impede confirmations, as Senate Democrats, being in the minority, cannot block nominees without bipartisan support, which is improbable.
The House Judiciary Committee’s Democrats, led by Rep. Jamie Raskin, are invoking the Constitution as a political tool by introducing a resolution that references the Foreign Emoluments Clause. This clause prohibits federal officials from accepting gifts or payments unless Congress grants permission. The resolution emphasizes that accepting such a “flying bribe” without congressional consent violates constitutional safeguards against foreign influence. Although this resolution is nonbinding and symbolic, it serves as a strategic maneuver. Should it reach the floor, it would compel lawmakers to publicly declare their positions, laying the groundwork for further legal, legislative, or political actions.
