Trump’s Golf Trips: A Hefty Price Tag for Taxpayers

News Summary

Donald Trump’s return to the White House has reignited his passion for golf, leading to a hefty $18 million bill for taxpayers in under two months. His golf outings have raised concerns about the financial burden on the nation, as he swiftly approaches the staggering costs accrued during his previous term. While his frequency on the greens ramps up, critics are questioning the appropriateness of prioritizing leisure activities amidst pressing national issues, all while Florida’s political landscape buzzes with activity.

Trump’s Golf Thrills and Taxpayer Bills: A New Era of Spending

Since stepping back into the White House, Donald Trump seems to have rekindled his love for golf. However, it’s not just the greens that are getting a workout—it’s American taxpayers who are feeling the pinch. Over a mere span of fewer than two months into his second term, Trump’s golf outings are racking up a staggering $18 million bill for the nation.

On Course to Exceed Previous Costs

This round of golfing is just the beginning. If Trump keeps up this pace, he’s on track to surpass the jaw-dropping $151.5 million that was spent during his previous term, a sum that covered travel and security for his frequent golfing exploits. Since taking office, Trump has swung clubs on 13 days out of his first 48, showcasing that his love for the game hasn’t waned.

Where the Money Goes

Of those 13 golfing days, an impressive 10 occurred at Trump International Golf Club, located in sunny Florida, while the remaining three days were spent at Trump Doral, another one of his famous properties. A 2019 report by the Government Accountability Office even estimated that each of Trump’s trips to Mar-a-Lago during his first term cost taxpayers around $3.38 million (in 2017 dollars), and that number is sure to have climbed due to inflation. Just imagine what that could amount to now!

Flying High: Air Force One and Security Measures

When Trump heads to Florida for a round of golf, he doesn’t take a simple flight. Instead, he hops on Air Force One, the presidential aircraft, ensuring that even his travel has a monumental price tag. The motorcade that accompanies him is transported by military C-17 planes, further adding to the substantial costs associated with these trips.

But the expenses don’t stop at travel. Security measures for Trump have been nothing short of intense, involving police boats equipped with machine guns patrolling the Intracoastal Waterway, a Coast Guard vessel stationed offshore, and a mix of local law enforcement officers. The presence of explosive-sniffing dogs adds another layer of precaution, which has become particularly critical after two assassination attempts aimed at Trump during his 2024 campaign.

A Recent Round Raises Eyebrows

Air Force One, Trump mentioned he might skip golfing during an upcoming trip. However, just days later, he was spotted hitting the links at Doral, proving that perhaps the lure of the game was simply too strong. On March 8, he was seen leaving the West Palm Beach golf course at 1:23 p.m., before a quick six-minute return to his Mar-a-Lago estate, stirring up questions about whether such frequent outings are warranted.

Taxpayer Concerns and Political Backdrop

With each golf outing, criticism regarding the financial burden on taxpayers continues to grow. People are left wondering whether it’s appropriate for the President to prioritize these leisure activities while there are pressing issues on the national agenda. The chorus of voices calling for a reevaluation of such expenditures appears to be gaining volume.

In the midst of all this, Florida’s political scene is buzzing with excitement. Governor Ron DeSantis and his wife, Casey, have been spotted socializing with Trump lately, even sharing some rounds of golf. It appears that business and pleasure are overlapping amid conversations surrounding the gubernatorial race as the two sides engage in political discussions while enjoying the game.

The Bottom Line

As Trump continues his golf escapades, the $18 million already spent raises eyebrows and questions about the implications of such significant taxpayer expenses. While the blues of the golf course may keep Trump happy, many are left wondering just how steep the bill will be by the end of his term. One thing is for sure: golf is expensive, especially when it’s played by a President.