Trump's National Guard deployments could cost over $1 billion this year, CBO projects

"President Trump's unprecedented use of the National Guard could cost $1.1 billion this year if domestic deployments remain in place, according to data released by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. During his second term, Trump sent troops to six Democratic-led cities in an effort to suppress protests, tackle crime or protect federal buildings and personnel. Half of those mobilizations ended this month, namely in Los Angeles, Chicago and Portland, Ore."

"But the continued military presence in Washington, D.C., Memphis and New Orleans, along with 200 members of the Texas National Guard still on standby, is expected to carry a steep cost. On Wednesday, the CBO said that at current levels, these deployments will require an additional $93 million per month. The operation in D.C. alone, which currently includes over 2,690 Guard members, is projected to reach upwards of $660 million this year if it runs through December as expected by the CBO."

"The CBO's findings were issued in response to 11 U.S. senators led by Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon who, back in October, urged the budget office to conduct an independent probe into deployment costs. "It's a massive use of national treasure that should be going into healthcare, housing and education," Merkley told NPR on Wednesday. The White House did not respond to a request for comment."

National Guard domestic deployments ordered by President Trump could cost roughly $1.1 billion this year if they remain in place, according to the CBO. Troops were mobilized to six Democratic-led cities to suppress protests, address crime and protect federal facilities. Half of the mobilizations ended in Los Angeles, Chicago and Portland, while forces remain in Washington, D.C., Memphis and New Orleans and 200 Texas Guardsmen are on standby. The CBO projects an additional $93 million per month at current levels and estimates the D.C. operation alone could cost up to $660 million if sustained through December. Senators requested the CBO review; the White House did not comment. The deployments have drawn legal scrutiny and raised concerns about soldiers' morale.

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