WASHINGTON (AP) – Former President Donald Trump is initiating a task force to oversee preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, signaling a renewed focus on major international events as he campaigns for a second term. The announcement, made Tuesday by the White House, comes as the U.S. prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Canada and Mexico.
Trump will formalize the task force through an executive order, according to White House Press Secretary karoline Leavitt.The task force will be responsible for coordinating federal, state, and local agencies to streamline visa processing, enhance security measures, and optimize transportation logistics for the Games. This marks the first time the U.S. will host a Summer Olympics since Atlanta in 1996, and the first time Los Angeles will host since 1984.
The 2028 Olympics are projected to generate an economic impact of $8.3 billion for the Los Angeles region, according to a 2022 study by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation. LA28,the organizing committee lead by President and Chair Casey Wasserman,has already begun infrastructure projects,including upgrades to the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the Metro rail system. The Games will utilize many existing venues, aiming for cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
The task force’s formation coincides with increased collaboration between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Officials from all three nations held their inaugural trilateral coordinating council meeting Tuesday,addressing security protocols and logistical planning for the tournament. The World Cup will be played in 16 cities across the three countries, including Los Angeles, Toronto, and Mexico City. The U.S.will host 60 of the 82 matches.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized the task force’s role in ensuring a secure and efficient experience for athletes, spectators, and officials. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, under Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, will play a key role in coordinating security efforts. The FBI is also expected to be heavily involved in threat assessment and counterterrorism measures.
Trump has publicly expressed enthusiasm for both the Olympics and the World Cup, viewing them as opportunities to showcase American strength and global leadership. He previously expressed interest in bringing the Olympics back to the U.S. during his first term,and actively supported the joint bid for the 2026 World Cup.
The 2028 Olympics will feature 32 sports and approximately 10,500 athletes from over 200 National Olympic Committees. The opening ceremony is scheduled to be held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum,which also hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984.