House Democrats have launched an investigation into President Donald Trump’s acceptance of a $400 million private jet from Qatar’s royal family, alleging potential constitutional violations under the Foreign Emoluments Clause. The inquiry, led by House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, centers on a legal memo authored by Attorney General Pam Bondi, which reportedly asserts that Trump’s acceptance of the aircraft was lawful. The letter sent to Bondi and White House Counsel David Warrington highlights concerns over a potential breach of the Constitution, which prohibits the President from accepting gifts from foreign states without congressional approval.
The Democrats argue that the memo fails to address the constitutional requirement for congressional consent, suggesting that Trump’s administration may have bypassed the law to secure the jet. Additionally, the investigation includes allegations that Trump or his advisors may have solicited the gift as a form of political favor, citing Trump’s public criticism of delays in obtaining a Boeing aircraft for his presidency. Bondi, who previously lobbied on behalf of Qatar, faces accusations of a conflict of interest, given her past financial ties to the country.
The inquiry comes amid Trump’s diplomatic visit to the Middle East, with Qatar being one of his key stops. Trump has defended the decision, calling critics ‘stupid’ and bashing Democrats for their scrutiny. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans and Speaker Mike Johnson have remained noncommittal on the matter, deferring to the administration for details. The House Judiciary Committee, though holding minority power in the chamber, continues to press for transparency, with Raskin, a long-standing critic of Trump’s foreign ties, vowing to hold the administration accountable.