Bergman Backs Trump’s Qatari Jet Gift Amid Security Concerns

Michigan Representative Jack Bergman has expressed support for President Trump’s acceptance of a $400 million jet gifted by Qatar, despite his long history of critiquing the Gulf nation. Meanwhile, Senator Elissa Slotkin raised serious concerns about security risks associated with the jet. In state news, speculation surrounds a new political operation led by the DeVos family, and Attorney General Dana Nessel faces pressure regarding Flint water crisis prosecution costs. Nessel has also endorsed state Senator Jeremy Moss for Congress.

U.S. Representative Jack Bergman, a Michigan Republican widely known for his critique of Qatar, has announced that he does not oppose President Donald Trump’s acceptance of a lavish Boeing 747-8 jetliner gifted by the Qatari government. “I’ve always considered the why they do it. But I’m not concerned about the gift of the jet,” Bergman told The Detroit News, implying that the gift does not worry him despite his previous criticisms of Qatar.

Last week, the Trump administration confirmed the acceptance of the 747-8, with plans already underway for the Air Force to retrofit it for Trump’s personal use. Experts anticipate these modifications will take considerable time and resources, potentially costing hundreds of millions of dollars. Keeping security issues in mind, Bergman, a retired commercial airline pilot and House Armed Services Committee member, downplayed any associated risks.

In an interview, he stated, “No, because what you do is like anything else, if somebody gives me a house, you know what I’m gonna do? I’m gonna sweep it to make sure there’s no other devices in there.” This embodies his confidence in existing technologies that allow thorough inspection of aircraft for any hidden threats.

Yet, critics argue that accepting the aircraft goes against the Constitution, which bars foreign gifts to the president without congressional approval. Trump himself remarked that it would be “stupid” to decline such a generous offer. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, referred to the jet transfer as a “donation to our country,” emphasizing that it would be accepted under proper legal and ethical guidelines.

During a recent visit to Qatar, Trump also secured vital economic agreements, including $10 billion earmarked for a U.S. military facility and a $42 billion arms deal. Qatar Airways has committed to purchasing American-made Boeing jets valued at $96 billion, showcasing the nation’s growing influence.

However, Bergman’s stance about the jet sharply contrasts with that of Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin, who expressed serious concerns regarding security. She labeled the transfer as a “big problem,” suggesting that sensitive discussions on the jetliner could jeopardize national security interests. Slotkin, previously involved in the Pentagon, highlighted the gravity of accepting gifts like this one given her own experiences with foreign gifts.

She has argued, “What kind of sway or influence do they have over someone like the president?” which raises questions about the potential implications of significant foreign contributions.

In other political news, former Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger maintained silence regarding speculation on a new political initiative associated with the DeVos family to support Republican resurgence in Michigan. The reports suggest preparations are underway for launching a new political entity before the 2026 midterms. Bolger, now an adviser to the DeVoses, dodged direct questions during a recent appearance on WKAR’s “Off The Record.”

As political contests approach, the Detroit Regional Chamber’s annual Mackinac Policy Conference is set to host a mix of gubernatorial and U.S. Senate candidates. While key Democratic contenders like Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist will attend, Republican candidate John James will notably miss the event.

State Rep. Jay DeBoyer, serving as chair for the House Oversight committee, has demanded expedited access to Flint water prosecution documentation. His request was responded to by Attorney General Dana Nessel, who originally provided some documentation but indicated more time was necessary to compile thousands of pages of records regarding costs already totaling $448.2 million, as of May 2023. Meanwhile, Nessel has faced scrutiny following the dismissal of significant charges against former state officials involved in the Flint water crisis.

Lastly, Nessel endorsed state Senator Jeremy Moss for Congress, expressing the need for advocates who understand Michigan’s plight amidst the turmoil in Washington D.C. Moss stands as the sole Democratic candidate currently running for the seat being vacated by Rep. Haley Stevens.

In summary, the acceptance of the Qatari jet by President Trump has sparked considerable debate, especially among lawmakers like Jack Bergman and Elissa Slotkin who hold opposing views. Meanwhile, the political landscape in Michigan is shifting with potential new initiatives from the DeVos family and the lead-up to various high-stakes elections. The Flint water crisis continues to entangle governmental accountability, highlighting the ongoing influence of political maneuvers in Michigan. Lastly, significant endorsements signal emerging leadership dynamics within the state’s Democratic party as it approaches critical elections.

Original Source: www.detroitnews.com