Trump Administration's Military Deployment in Los Angeles Costs Over $120 Million

Strategic Insights -

The deployment of National Guard soldiers and Marines in Los Angeles, ordered by President Trump in response to immigration protests, has cost nearly $120 million since June 7, according to California Governor Gavin Newsom. The expenses incurred include $71 million for food and shelter, $37 million in payroll, over $4 million in logistics supplies, $3.5 million in travel, and $1.5 million for demobilization. The Pentagon initially estimated the activation to cost $134 million and last about 60 days, but the deployment has lasted 89 days with about 300 troops remaining on extended orders until November.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Trump administration's military deployment in Los Angeles has cost nearly $120 million so far, with $71 million allocated for food and shelter, $37 million for payroll, over $4 million for logistics supplies, $3.5 million for travel, and $1.5 million for demobilization.
  • The deployment was initiated in response to immigration protests, with President Trump ordering more than 4,000 National Guard soldiers and 700 Marines into the city on June 7.
  • Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has condemned the deployment as "political theater" that has sent "millions of taxpayer dollars down the drain" and corroded the readiness of the National Guard.
  • The deployment costs are a federal obligation, as the troops were commandeered by the White House, and the Pentagon initially estimated the activation to cost $134 million and last about 60 days.
  • The National Guard soldiers involved in the deployment have reported low morale, with some describing troops as demoralized, bored, and questioning the mission.
  • Governor Newsom has requested that the White House release the remaining troops, which he claims is an "intimidation" tactic in advance of a November special election on redistricting in California.

Statistics:

  • The deployment of National Guard soldiers and Marines in Los Angeles has cost nearly $120 million since June 7.
  • The expenses incurred include:

+ $71 million for food and shelter

+ $37 million in payroll

+ over $4 million in logistics supplies

+ $3.5 million in travel

+ $1.5 million for demobilization

  • The deployment has lasted 89 days with about 300 troops remaining on extended orders until November.
  • The Pentagon initially estimated the activation to cost $134 million and last about 60 days.

Sources:

  • Governor Gavin Newsom's statement
  • The New York Times
  • Pentagon's estimate for deployment costs
  • Federal government's data on military deployment costs
  • Federal judge's ruling on the use of the military for domestic law enforcement
  • Interviews with National Guard soldiers and officials