Former White House chief of staff and Democratic politician Rahm Emanuel says he turned down bribes from the Saudi government while traveling to the country on a state visit with then-President Obama.
“The White House has a for sale sign on the front lawn,” Emanuel said while appearing on ABC’s “The View,” in reference to President Trump’s acceptance of a jet from Qatar. “Look, I’m from Chicago, we got a low bar. This is a cash and carry business over at this White House.”
Emanuel then recalled a visit he made to Saudi Arabia alongside Obama, under whom he served as chief of staff.
“When I went to Saudi Arabia with President Obama, first trip, first thing. We’re at the king’s ranch for his horses. And let me just say, the horses look better than section eight public housing in America. You get there and walk in the room and there was an ostrich briefcase. I open it up, diamond necklaces, earrings, bracelets,” he said. “And I took a photo and I sent it to my wife Amy and I said, not happening.”
Emanuel’s comments were first highlighted by Mediaite.
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have suggested Trump’s acceptance of the jet could pose a threat to national security, or undermine American foreign policy.
Trump has defended his decision to accept the free jet, telling reporters he would have been “stupid” not to take Qatar up on the offer.
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