CNN's Kaitlan Collins Repetitive Questioning Annoys Lawmaker

CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins Monday night interviewed Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) on her show The Source, focusing extensively on President Donald Trump’s acceptance of a $400 million Boeing 747-8 from the Qatari royal family, intended as a replacement for Air Force One. 

The nearly six-minute exchange centered on the ethical and legal implications of the gift, particularly in light of the Constitution’s Foreign Emoluments Clause, which prohibits federal officeholders from accepting gifts from foreign governments without congressional consent. Collins pressed McCormick repeatedly, asking if he could recall any precedent for a U.S. president accepting such a large gift and whether he was concerned about potential security risks, like surveillance equipment on the plane.

McCormick appeared exasperated, arguing that the plane’s acceptance was a “new concept” not yet fully evaluated and that it wasn’t a pressing issue compared to Middle East peace efforts. He deflected by questioning whether past gifts from foreign leaders had been voted on and suggested the plane’s legality would be assessed later, stating, “If it’s illegal, we won’t do it.” 

When Collins raised the Emoluments Clause, McCormick admitted he wasn’t a lawyer and downplayed the gift’s significance, focusing instead on broader diplomatic priorities. He grew frustrated, asking, “How many times are you gonna ask me the same question?” and claiming he’d answered thoroughly, though Collins noted he had raised the surveillance concern himself.

The plane, described as a government-to-government transaction by a Qatari official, has sparked controversy due to its unprecedented value and Trump’s business ties in Qatar, including a proposed $5.5 billion Trump Organization golf resort. Critics, including Democrats and watchdog groups, have labeled it a potential violation of constitutional norms, while security experts cited concerns about the plane’s integrity, requiring extensive inspections by the CIA and NSA.