President Donald Trump has established a task force to oversee the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, emphasizing the need for a safe and successful event. This marks the return of the Olympics to the U.S. since the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City. The task force, outlined in an executive order signed by Trump at the White House, is tasked with coordinating security measures, visa processing, and credentialing for athletes, coaches, media, and visitors.
Trump, expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming L.A. Olympics, highlighted the importance of ensuring a memorable occasion for America. He emphasized the commitment to safeguarding the Games, even suggesting the potential deployment of the National Guard or military if needed. Notably, earlier this year, National Guard troops were sent to Los Angeles in response to immigration protests.
The task force, chaired by Trump with Vice President JD Vance as vice chair, includes key Cabinet members and administration officials such as Attorney General Pam Bondi, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles. Olympic champion Nastia Liukin and Paralympic Games swimmer Brad Snyder were present at the event.
During the announcement, Trump commended the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee’s decision to prevent transgender women from competing in women’s sports at the 2028 Olympics. He stressed the importance of upholding fairness in sports and received some applause for his remarks.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described Trump’s involvement in overseeing the Olympics as a great honor, given his passion for sports. Trump was presented with medals from the 1984 Olympics by LA28 president and chair Casey Wasserman, jokingly asking if he could claim them athletically.
Wasserman noted that the task force signifies progress in planning efforts for the 2028 Games, aiming to deliver an exceptional sporting spectacle. Trump also expressed anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for security threats in the lead-up to the event.