taxpayer costs

Trump’s Golf Habit: Taxpayers Foot the Bill for His Courses

HuffPost analysis reveals that President Trump’s golf outings have already cost U.S. taxpayers nearly $71 million since returning to office, with projections exceeding $300 million by the end of a second term. These figures, which are likely even higher when accounting for inflation, include expenses for travel and security, particularly for securing Mar-a-Lago. This spending contrasts sharply with the estimated $151.5 million spent during his first term and far surpasses the $90 million spent by President Obama on golf and family vacations over eight years. The president’s past criticisms of Obama’s golf habits further highlight the contrast between his stated promises and actual actions.

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DOGE’s Claimed $160 Billion Savings Cost Taxpayers $135 Billion, Analysis Shows

Despite claiming $160 billion in savings, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has incurred significant costs. A nonpartisan analysis estimates $135 billion in taxpayer expenses this fiscal year due to employee leave, rehires, and productivity losses stemming from DOGE’s actions. These costs, which exclude legal fees and lost tax revenue, are projected to increase. While DOGE anticipates long-term savings, critics argue the short-term costs outweigh any potential benefits, particularly considering the substantial economic ripple effects of reduced funding in key sectors.

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US Spends Millions Maintaining Seized Russian Oligarch’s Yacht

Newly released documents reveal that maintaining the seized $230 million superyacht Amadea, allegedly owned by sanctioned Russian oligarch Suleyman Kerimov, has cost U.S. taxpayers tens of millions of dollars over two years. Expenses include crew upkeep, fuel, and even iPhone replacements, all while the yacht sits in San Diego awaiting legal proceedings. This ongoing cost has prompted criticism and calls for reform to expedite the forfeiture process of such assets. The seizure, initially hailed as a victory against Russian oligarchs, is now raising concerns about the financial burden on American taxpayers.

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