The difference between securing a president that plays golf on a military base golf course vs playing on a private golf course:
"Protecting a president on a military base golf course:
Military bases offer substantial cost savings for security when a president plays golf.
Existing security: Military bases are already restricted areas, minimizing the extensive security sweeps and logistical needs required at a public or private location.
Reduced travel costs: Many military bases with golf courses are close to Washington, D.C. This allows for shorter and less expensive transport, often via helicopter, rather than requiring the use of Air Force One.
Internal resources: The Secret Service can coordinate more easily with military law enforcement and base personnel, who are already part of the federal security apparatus.
Protecting a president at a private golf course:
Security costs for a president visiting a private golf course are much higher and more complex.
Extensive travel: A president's travel to a distant private club, such as those in Florida or New Jersey, typically requires flying Air Force One and a separate cargo plane for the motorcade. In 2025, the estimated operating cost for Air Force One was over $176,000 per flight hour.
Securing the perimeter: The Secret Service must lock down the property and surrounding areas, including airspace, for the duration of the visit. This often requires significant coordination and overtime for state and local law enforcement, which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per day.
Private access: Unlike a military base, private clubs are typically bordered by public areas like roads and neighborhoods, creating more security vulnerabilities and requiring more agents to be deployed.
Hotel and amenity costs: Private properties have charged the government for Secret Service agents' accommodations and equipment. For example, some Trump-owned properties have charged the Secret Service high rates for rooms and even for golf cart rentals. In contrast, on a military base, these resources are often provided as part of existing government facilities. "
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