Since taking office earlier this year, President Donald Trump has reportedly spent a significant amount of taxpayer money on his golf outings. The 78-year-old president, who has long been known for his love of golf, has played 13 rounds in just 48 days since his inauguration on January 20. While golf may be a passion for Trump, the financial burden of these trips is raising eyebrows.
Trump, who owns 12 golf properties in the U.S. and several others abroad, has frequently visited his own courses during his presidency. According to reports, he has played 10 rounds at Trump International West Palm Beach and three rounds at Trump Doral, a sprawling 800-acre resort near Miami. These trips, which involve the use of Air Force One and extensive security measures, come at a high cost to taxpayers.
An independent report estimates that Trump’s golf trips have already cost taxpayers over $18 million this year. This includes expenses for transportation, security, and other logistics. For example, a single weekend trip to Scotland during his first term reportedly cost taxpayers over $1 million.
While Trump has often highlighted his decision to donate his presidential salary, critics argue that the cost of his golf trips far outweighs this gesture. Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich previously calculated that Trump’s golfing habits during his first term cost taxpayers a staggering $141 million.
As debates over government spending continue, Trump’s frequent golf outings remain a point of contention. Whether these trips are seen as a personal indulgence or a necessary break, one thing is clear: they come with a hefty price tag for American taxpayers.
