Los Angeles Prepares for 2028 Olympics Amidst Security Concerns and Funding Negotiations
as Los Angeles gears up to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, preparations are underway involving federal, state, and local authorities. The event is expected to require significant resources, especially in the areas of security and infrastructure, and is unfolding against a backdrop of recent political engagement and budgetary challenges for the city.
Historically, U.S. presidents have taken an increasing role in the Games. While previous administrations delegated the formal opening ceremony to local officials or the Vice President, Ronald reagan broke precedent in 1984 by personally opening the Los Angeles Summer Olympics. The federal government’s involvement has consistently focused on security, though financial contributions to infrastructure have also been ample.
The upcoming Games are expected to continue this trend. The U.S.Secret Service will lead security coordination, a standard established at the 2002 winter Olympics in Salt Lake City – the first Games designated a “National Special Security Event” following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This designation grants the Secret Service primary duty for security implementation.
federal financial support for past Games has been significant.Ahead of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, the federal government allocated $227 million for security and transportation. However, the Atlanta Games were marred by a bombing at Centennial Olympic Park, highlighting the ever-present security risks.
Currently, Los Angeles city officials are collaborating with LA28, the committee organizing the Games, on security planning. Negotiations are ongoing regarding the deployment of city resources – including police, traffic control, and emergency medical services – during the 17-day Olympic period and the subsequent two-week Paralympics.
A 2021 agreement stipulates that LA28 will reimburse the city for any services exceeding normal operational levels. By October 1, 2025, LA28 and the city must finalize agreements on “enhanced services” and associated costs, repayment schedules, and auditing procedures. This financial aspect is particularly crucial given Los Angeles’ recent efforts to close a nearly $1 billion budget deficit, which involved slowing down police recruitment. Overtime for law enforcement and other substantial expenses related to the Games will place a strain on the city’s finances.
Adding another layer to the political landscape, casey Wasserman, chair of LA28, has actively engaged with national Republican figures.He has publicly expressed support for Donald Trump’s commitment to the Games and met with the former president at Mar-a-Lago in January. Wasserman has also contributed to both the National Republican Congressional Committee and House Speaker Mike Johnson’s leadership fund.
