Bulwark Takes: This $400M Plane Is a Bribe—And Everyone Knows It

Release Date: May 11, 2025

Hosts: Sam Stein and Bill Kristol
Episode Title: This $400M Plane Is a Bribe—And Everyone Knows It

1. Introduction and Context

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, Sam Stein, Managing Editor at The Bulwark, engages in a critical discussion with Bill Kristol regarding a controversial move by the Trump administration. The central focus is the administration's plan to accept a $400 million luxury Boeing 70478 Jumbo Jet from the royal family of Qatar. This episode delves into the ethical implications, potential corruption, and the broader impact on political and public perception.

2. Overview of the $400M Plane Controversy

Sam Stein opens the conversation by presenting an exclusive ABC News report detailing the Trump administration's intention to accept a state-of-the-art jet from Qatar. The jet is intended to serve as the new Air Force One for President Donald Trump during his tenure. Upon leaving office, ownership of the plane is slated to transfer to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation, suggesting personal use beyond official capacities.

Sam Stein [00:22]:

"I have never in my life seen a more brazen act of a foreign government trying to influence a president by than this."

This move has sparked significant debate, highlighting the unprecedented nature of such a gift from a foreign entity and raising red flags about potential quid pro quo arrangements.

3. Ethical and Corruption Concerns

Bill Kristol expresses deep concern over the ethical ramifications of accepting such a lavish gift. He draws parallels to historical instances of elite excess and corruption, emphasizing how this action undermines the integrity of the presidency and national security protocols.

Bill Kristol [02:17]:

"It is unbelievable... it's such a kind of decadent late empire, sort of the wealthy, you know, country gives you this gold plated, you know, thing to try to win favor."

Kristol underscores the absurdity of retrofitting the plane to meet stringent security standards, questioning the practicality and necessity of accepting a gift of this magnitude. He criticizes the administration for overlooking the broader implications of appearing beholden to a foreign power.

Sam Stein [05:07]:

"There's nothing in this story where they report, well, why. Don't say it's debated whether or not it would be wise to accept the gift."

This lack of critical examination by the media, according to Stein, reflects a troubling oversight that prioritizes legalistic justifications over ethical considerations.

4. Bill Kristol's Perspective and Experiences

Kristol leverages his extensive experience, having served in high-level positions and utilized Air Force One and Air Force Two. He contrasts the proposed Qatar jet with his firsthand understanding of the operational and security requirements essential for such aircraft.

Bill Kristol [03:30]:

"The idea that we're going to use some plane that's been supplied to us even if our guys have to go, but then if our guys have to go out, go over it and rip out the innards and make sure there's nothing in there, what's the point of taking it? Right. I mean, so it's ridiculous."

He reminisces about his time in office, detailing the strict protocols surrounding the acceptance of gifts, such as those from Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the ethical rigor that currently appears to be absent in the Trump administration's approach.

Bill Kristol [04:11]:

"If the gift was less than $100 or $200, we could keep it. We could ask to have it back as a personal memento. It was over $200, no question. You couldn't do it."

5. Potential Reactions and Pressure Points

The discussion shifts to the possible fallout from this revelation, exploring three main pressure points that could challenge Trump's position:

1. MAGA Faithful:
   Some staunch Trump supporters, exemplified by figures like Laura Loomer, may view the acceptance of the plane as inconsistent with Trump's image and principles.

   Sam Stein [08:20]:

   "Laura Loomer... we cannot accept a $400 million gift from what she calls, not me, jihadists in suits."

2. Elites and Business Figures:
   The traditional Republican and business elites might find the gesture garish and unbecoming, leading to embarrassment and potential dissent within influential circles.

   Bill Kristol [10:43]:

   "The garish, oligarchic, out of control grift and self indulgence stuff can hit."

3. Average Republican Voters:
   Everyday voters who prioritize pragmatism may feel betrayed, questioning the administration's judgment and integrity.

Stein also references the negative impact of Trump's recent "meme coin" initiative, which saw significant financial losses for small investors, potentially eroding trust among this voter base.

6. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Bill Kristol draws historical parallels, invoking Marie Antoinette's infamous "Let them eat cake" remark to illustrate the disconnect between the administration's actions and public sentiment.

Bill Kristol [10:55]:

"I mean, in a way that's famous, but then you think for a second that was the French Revolution... grotesque, smug, self satisfied, out of touch."

The episode concludes with a somber reflection on the potential for internal fractures within the Republican coalition and the broader political landscape. Both hosts express concern that such blatant displays of corruption and disregard for ethical norms may catalyze significant political backlash.

Sam Stein [11:34]:

"Well, we'll wait and see."

Closing Remarks:

Sam Stein thanks Bill Kristol for his insights and underscores the importance of vigilance and accountability in political leadership. The episode serves as a critical examination of the Trump administration's actions, urging listeners to consider the long-term implications of accepting foreign gifts and the erosion of ethical standards in governance.

For more in-depth analysis and coverage of the Trump administration, subscribe to The Bulwark's podcast feed.