Bergman Supports Trump’s Qatar Jet Gift Amid Controversy and Political Developments

U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman, a critic of Qatar, accepts Trump’s gift of a Boeing 747-8, raising eyebrows amongst political critics concerned about foreign influence. Bergman downplayed any security risks, contradicting Senator Elissa Slotkin’s concerns. Meanwhile, the DeVos family may be launching a new political group ahead of the 2026 elections, while preparations for the Mackinac Policy Conference draw political contenders together. Attorney General Dana Nessel faces scrutiny over Flint water prosecution costs.

In an unexpected turn of events, U.S. Representative Jack Bergman, known for his criticism of Qatar, has expressed that he has no issues regarding President Donald Trump accepting a luxurious Boeing 747-8 jetliner as a gift from the Qatari government. Bergman, who is a Republican from Watersmeet and a retired commercial airline pilot, stated, “I’ve always considered the why they do it. But I’m not concerned about the gift of the jet.” The Trump administration has officially accepted the jet and plans are underway to modify it for use as President Trump’s new Air Force One, a process anticipated to take years and cost a significant amount, possibly exceeding hundreds of millions. Despite critics raising concerns about national security and potential implications regarding the acceptance of foreign gifts, Bergman dismissed any alarm. He likened it to receiving a house as a gift, claiming, “You can do that with that airplane. We have the technology now to go into a chip and see if that chip is infected.” The acceptance has drawn fire from those who argue it may breach constitutional regulations about foreign gifts without congressional approval. Bergman’s perspective stands in sharp contrast to other political figures, most notably Senator Elissa Slotkin, who branded the jet transfer a “big problem” due to its implications on security and foreign influence. Slotkin cited her experience at the Pentagon, recalling an investigation concerning accepting gifts from Qatar and raising questions about the influence the Qatari government might seek following such a generous gift. In addition to the jet deal, Trump recently announced various economic agreements with Qatar during a visit earlier this month, including significant investments in a U.S. military facility and substantial arms purchases. Although Bergman has long criticized Qatar’s influence in the U.S. as a “unique threat” to national security, he appears undeterred regarding this recent development.
\n In other political news, a potential new organization led by the DeVos family is reportedly in the works, though further details remain sparse. Former Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger did not confirm or speculate on the nature of this initiative during an appearance on WKAR’s “Off The Record.” He refrained from making any announcements, though he indicated that developments would come to light soon. Former Representative Shane Hernandez is said to be involved too, but details on his new position remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference is set to commence, drawing a host of top contenders for gubernatorial and senatorial candidacies. Key Democratic figures like Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and other gubernatorial candidates will be present this year, alongside several Republican hopefuls, though some prominent candidates, including John James, will not attend. In another development, State Rep. Jay DeBoyer has pressed Attorney General Dana Nessel to expedite the release of documents related to Flint water prosecution costs, triggering questions about the amount of time required for compliance. Nessel defended her office’s pace, emphasizing the volume of documents involved and ongoing litigation as factors contributing to delays. Finally, Nessel has voiced her support for state Senator Jeremy Moss in his bid for the Democratic nomination for Congress in Michigan’s 11th District, asserting that he is the candidate needed at such a crucial time. Meanwhile, the “Tweet of the Week” honors go to Kurt Berryman, whose interview by a local TV station mistakenly misidentified him, creating a lighthearted moment in the realm of Michigan politics.

In summary, the acceptance of a $400 million jet by President Trump from Qatar raises complex debates over foreign gifts and national security, highlighted by diverging views from lawmakers like Jack Bergman and Elissa Slotkin. Meanwhile, the DeVos family’s possible new political initiative and ongoing political activities, like the Mackinac Policy Conference and Attorney General Nessel’s handling of Flint-related costs, reflect the vibrant and often contentious political landscape in Michigan ahead of the upcoming elections. Moments of levity also emerge, as seen with Berryman’s amusing televised gaffe.

Original Source: www.detroitnews.com