Donald Trump is anticipated to announce the formation of a White House taskforce on Tuesday aimed at managing elements related to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The president plans to sign an executive order that will establish this taskforce, which is expected to include various cabinet members and government officials responsible for overseeing security and transportation for the event, marking the first Olympic Games in the US in nearly thirty years.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, highlighted Trump’s role in securing the bid for Los Angeles to host the Olympics, stating that he considers it a significant honor to facilitate this global event during his second term. With the Olympics approaching in three years, Los Angeles is actively working on preparations that could attract millions over the 16-day event.
The city is engaged in “high-stakes” negotiations with LA28, the organizing committee, regarding the involvement of city staff, including police officers. An important aspect of the negotiations also includes a proposed ballot measure that might require public approval for some Olympic venues.
This announcement comes amid a backdrop of tensions between Los Angeles officials and the Trump administration, particularly related to immigration practices and the deployment of troops. Despite these conflicts, Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee, has expressed confidence in the city’s capability to host the Games, noting that there is strong support from various levels of government.
Trump has consistently emphasized his administration’s commitment to the success of the Los Angeles Olympics, with recent budget allocations of $1 billion for security and planning. Casey Wasserman, chairperson of LA28, voiced gratitude towards the administration for its unwavering support, stating that the taskforce’s creation represents significant progress in ensuring not only a monumental but also an unparalleled Olympic experience in 2028.
This taskforce is a vital step towards uniting federal, state, and local resources to ensure the smooth execution of the Games, showcasing the collective commitment to a successful event that will spotlight Los Angeles on the global stage.