President Donald J. Trump lashed out at a reporter from ABC News on Sunday after being questioned about a luxury jet reportedly gifted to the U.S. government. The fiery exchange came during a press briefing, where Trump dismissed accusations that the aircraft was a personal gift for him, calling the reporter’s question “embarrassing.”
Trump: “They’re Giving Us a Free Jet”
In a now-viral moment captured on video, an ABC journalist asked the President, “What do you say to people who view that luxury jet as a personal gift to you?” Trump fired back sharply:
“You’re ABC Fake News, right? You should be embarrassed asking that question. They’re giving us a free jet. I could say no… I want to pay you $1 billion… Or I could say thank you.”
ABC: “What do you say to people who view that luxury jet as a personal gift to you?”@POTUS: “You’re ABC Fake News right?… You should be embarrassed asking that question. They’re giving us a free jet. I could say no… I want to pay you $1B… Or I could say thank you.” pic.twitter.com/Q22i73Asle
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 12, 2025
Trump’s tone was stern and unapologetic, framing the acceptance of the aircraft as a diplomatic win rather than personal enrichment. He emphasized that the jet was gifted to the United States government, not to him individually, and that rejecting it would have been both impractical and ungrateful.
Gift or Political Flashpoint?
The jet in question reportedly a state-of-the-art aircraft from an unnamed allied nation has stirred debate in Washington. Critics argue that such high-profile gifts risk blurring the lines between state diplomacy and personal gain, especially in an election year. The President’s blunt response to ABC has only intensified scrutiny.
Supporters, however, have praised Trump’s clarity. “He’s right if the country is being given something of value at no cost, it’s a win,” said a senior White House official on condition of anonymity.
White House Yet to Release Full Details on Remarks of Trump
The Biden-appointed ethics office, still serving in advisory capacity, has called for transparency regarding the gift’s origin and terms. So far, the White House has not disclosed who gifted the jet, what its valuation is, or whether there are any strings attached.
The incident reflects a familiar pattern in Trump’s presidency: a confrontational stance toward mainstream media and an assertive, business-minded approach to governance. With the 2026 midterms already looming on the horizon, moments like these are likely to shape political narratives in the months ahead.
Whether this exchange bolsters Trump’s image as a straight-talking leader or reignites concerns over optics and ethics remains to be seen.
