Overview

• On August 5, President Trump signed an executive order establishing and chairing the White House Olympics Task Force to oversee the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
• Trump pledged to deploy the National Guard or military forces if necessary to secure the Olympics, marking a departure from traditional federal support roles.
• Los Angeles Times columnist Gustavo Arellano argued on August 7 that the city should withdraw from hosting to avoid becoming a political showcase for the president’s agenda.
• Letters published in the Times voiced fears that direct presidential oversight could intimidate athletes, amplify deportation efforts in Southern California and erode public trust.
• Despite promises of no taxpayer burden, the City of Los Angeles remains responsible for the first $270 million of any budget overruns or revenue shortfalls.