Bergman Backs Trump’s Qatar Jet Gift Amid Political Turbulence in Michigan

Rep. Jack Bergman voices support for Trump’s acceptance of a $400M jet from Qatar, despite previous criticism of the emirate’s influence. Critics worry about constitutional violations. Meanwhile, Jase Bolger hints at a new DeVos-led political operation ahead of the mid-term elections. The Mackinac Policy Conference draws political candidates, and Nessel faces pressure over Flint water crisis cost transparency.

Michigan U.S. Representative Jack Bergman, known for his critiques of Qatar, has expressed no issue with President Donald Trump receiving a Boeing 747-8 luxury jetliner as a substantial gift from the Qatari government. Commenting on the situation, Bergman stated, “I’ve always considered the why they do it. But I’m not concerned about the gift of the jet,” as reported by The Detroit News. This acceptance marks another chapter in the complex relationship between the U.S., Qatar, and President Trump’s administration.

Last week, the Trump administration moved forward to officially accept the aircraft, with the Air Force set to convert the plane into a new version of Air Force One for Trump. Experts are predicting this retrofitting will be a lengthy and expensive process, potentially spanning years and incurring significant costs. Despite Bergman’s previous warnings regarding Qatar’s influence and security risks, he brushed aside concerns surrounding such a high-value foreign asset entering presidential service.

Bergman, who has a background as a commercial airline pilot and serves on the House Armed Services Committee, noted, “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.” He added that modern technology would allow for detailed inspections of potential threats, including any embedded devices in the aircraft.

Conversely, critics have raised alarms about potential constitutional violations, citing the prohibition against foreign gifts without congressional consent. President Trump referred to the gift acceptance as an idea he would be “stupid” to reject. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterized the jet donation as beneficial, stating that it will be formally accepted “according to all legal and ethical obligations.”

This week, Trump’s visit to the Middle East included discussions on economic partnerships with Qatar, wherein significant investments were pledged. These deals include a staggering $10 billion investment into a U.S. military facility and firearms purchasing agreements totaling $42 billion. Further, Qatar Airways is set to acquire 210 American-made Boeing jets, bringing the total to a remarkable $96 billion.

Bergman, who is a retired Marine lieutenant general, has long labeled Qatar a “unique threat” to national security. His concerns center around the emirate’s history of espionage operations and its connections with groups like Hamas and the Taliban. Despite his criticisms of Qatar’s influence, Bergman’s acceptance of the jet stands in stark contrast to statements made by fellow lawmakers, particularly from the Democratic side.

Representative Elissa Slotkin, also a member of the House Armed Services Committee, has articulated her strong objections to the jet transfer. She underscored the potential ramifications of utilizing the aircraft for sensitive operations, questioning the implications of such a foreign donation. Slotkin recounted her experiences at the Pentagon, where she presided over inquiries into foreign gifts to officials, emphasizing, “This is a $400 million jet, and the issue of foreign influence comes out.”

Meanwhile, in political circles, former Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger has generated buzz regarding a rumored new organization linked to the DeVos family for reshaping Republican efforts ahead of the 2026 mid-term elections. Bolger, when asked about the new operation, remained evasive, stating, “I am not here to make any announcement.” The speculation is growing, especially after reports confirmed former Rep. Shane Hernandez and Ronna McDaniel would be leading this initiative.

As attention shifts to the upcoming Mackinac Policy Conference, many political figures are preparing for the event. Most Democratic candidates for governor, including Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, will be present, as well as key Republican figures. However, not all candidates will attend, such as U.S. Rep. John James from Shelby Township.

In the realm of ongoing Flint water crisis discussions, Rep. Jay DeBoyer has urged Attorney General Dana Nessel to expedite the release of prosecutorial financial records. Tensions have been apparent, as Nessel has faced criticism for past delays. In response, Nessel promised forthcoming documentation, defending her office’s actions amid ongoing scrutiny regarding the significant expenses involved in managing the crisis.

Lastly, with primary races heating up, Nessel has officially endorsed State Senator Jeremy Moss for Congress in Michigan’s 11th District. She emphasized the necessity of strong representation against chaos in national politics, declaring, “At this critical time for our state, our country, and our democracy as we know it, we need a proven fighter.” Moss remains the sole announced Democratic contender in the race.

In summary, political tensions around international gifts, state operative dynamics, and local legislative issues continue to shape Michigan’s political landscape as parties gear up for the upcoming mid-term elections.

The Michigan political landscape is marked by recent developments, including Rep. Jack Bergman’s controversial acceptance of a $400 million jet from Qatar, which has elicited varied responses from lawmakers regarding national security and foreign influence. Meanwhile, discussions surrounding a new DeVos-led political initiative await clarity as elections approach. With key figures gearing up for the Mackinac Policy Conference and Attorney General Nessel under scrutiny regarding Flint water costs, the dynamics of power and accountability remain at the forefront.

Original Source: www.detroitnews.com