1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

This proposed gift of a plane from Qatar to President Trump raises serious national security concerns that cannot be ignored. The process of converting a commercial aircraft into a secure presidential transport is an immense undertaking requiring years of specialized work and immense costs. Accepting a foreign-owned plane risks potential compromise through hidden surveillance devices or other vulnerabilities. Even a thorough inspection cannot provide full assurance against such threats from bad actors. The current program to replace Air Force One is following strict protocols and undergoing comprehensive security reviews to deliver a new presidential aircraft adhering to the highest standards. This existing program is the proper path forward to ensure the Commander-in-Chief has safe and reliable air travel capabilities. Deviating from this program by accepting a gifted plane introduces unacceptable risks. Furthermore, the perception of the U.S. President receiving a lavish personal gift from a foreign nation understandably raises ethics concerns and could be viewed as an attempt to unduly influence U.S. policy. Avoiding such potential conflicts of interest is imperative for maintaining democratic integrity. Given the immense security implications and ethics questions, Congress should act swiftly to prohibit acceptance of this proposed gift through legislation if necessary. Maintaining transparency and upholding national security must take priority over any purported cost savings or expediency. The office of the presidency demands adherence to the highest standards of propriety and protection. I urge Congress to take decisive action to preclude this questionable acquisition and preserve full accountability to the American people.