President Donald Trump has once again made headlines, but this time, it’s not for a political move or policy decision.
Instead, it’s his time spent on the golf course that has drawn widespread criticism, with taxpayers footing a hefty bill for his luxury hobby.
Since his return to the White House on January 20, 2025, Trump has wasted no time indulging in his passion for golf.
Despite serving as the nation’s leader, he has played golf on 13 occasions within just 48 days, often retreating to his high-end golf resorts.
Trump’s love for the sport is no secret. Owning more than a dozen courses across the United States, as well as properties in Scotland, Ireland, and the UAE, he has long branded himself as a golf enthusiast.
During his presidency, he has frequently been spotted at Trump International in West Palm Beach and Trump Doral in Miami, both of which have hosted several of his recent golf rounds.
Renowned golfer Jack Nicklaus once remarked that Trump “loves the game of golf more than he loves money.”
Trump himself has previously described golf as more than just a sport, calling it a “passion” in his 2005 book, The Best Golf Advice I Ever Received.
However, that passion has come at a cost—one that American taxpayers are now questioning.
Every golf trip Trump takes is accompanied by significant expenses.
His travels require Air Force One, increased security, Secret Service protection, and local law enforcement patrols, all adding to the financial burden on the public.
During his first term in office, Trump’s golf outings were already a point of contention.
Reports from The Washington Post estimated that his trips to Florida for golf would cost taxpayers a staggering $64 million.
However, former Labor Secretary Robert Reich later revealed in 2020 that Trump’s golf outings had actually amounted to a shocking $141 million in taxpayer money.
Critics argue that Trump’s frequent golf trips not only cost millions but also pose ethical concerns.
By choosing to visit his own golf resorts, he is effectively funneling government funds into his private businesses.
Trump has refused to divest from his business empire, despite mounting legal challenges.
Several lawsuits claim that his golf courses and hotels have received foreign payments, violating the U.S. Constitution’s Emoluments Clause.
Local governments are also feeling the strain of these costly visits.
Palm Beach County has had to dedicate additional security resources, including helicopters and extra law enforcement personnel, to accommodate Trump’s golf excursions.
The county’s security budget has reportedly surpassed $45 million, with more expenses anticipated as Trump continues his presidency.
To make matters worse, one of his most infamous golf trips—his weekend in Scotland in 2018—cost taxpayers over $1 million.
The Committee on Oversight and Accountability Democrats confirmed that this sum covered security and operational costs tied to the trip.
But just how much have Trump’s latest golf rounds cost taxpayers this year?
Recent reports have revealed a shocking figure—Trump’s 13 rounds of golf in just 48 days have already cost U.S. taxpayers over $18 million.
With each round racking up travel, security, and operational expenses, the financial toll continues to climb, leaving Americans outraged over the extravagant spending.
As Trump continues to prioritize his time on the golf course, many are left questioning whether his costly leisure activities are justifiable during his presidency.
Feature Image Credit: (TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP)
