1. United States
  2. Ill.
  3. Letter

From Air Force One to the Octagon: We're Paying for Trump's Ego Trips

To: Sen. Duckworth, Sen. Durbin, Rep. Miller

From: A verified voter in Donnellson, IL

July 14, 2025

I’m writing to express my outrage and deep concern over the continued misuse of taxpayer funds by former President Donald Trump — most recently for his appearance at the FIFA Club World Cup final. This was not an official visit. Nor were the many other similar outings — from UFC fights to college football games, to endless golf trips and political rallies at Trump-owned resorts. Yet all of these excursions required massive logistical support: Air Force One or similar government aircraft, full Secret Service protection, and federal travel planning, all funded by the American taxpayer. It’s clear: these are not trips for the people. They are personal entertainment, self-promotion, and brand-building for one man. And in many cases, our tax dollars are literally funneled back into his private businesses — as government agencies are forced to stay at or rent from Trump properties. This is king behavior. And last I checked, the United States is a democracy — not a monarchy. Even worse, if we’re being honest, Mr. Trump acts less like a president and more like a jester — not entertaining the people, but making a spectacle of himself and undermining the dignity of the office he once held. His actions mock the system, and every dollar spent on his indulgences adds insult to injury for hardworking Americans who are paying the price. People are struggling. They’re skipping meals, rationing medication, and working multiple jobs. And while they do, they’re watching their money pay for a billionaire to attend cage fights, football games, and soccer matches on private jets — all under the false pretense of leadership. I urge you to: Investigate how these funds are being used, End the use of public money for non-official travel, and Introduce or support legislation that prohibits federal funds from being used for leisure, campaign-style events, or personal business interests — no matter who holds office. This isn’t about politics. This is about decency, ethics, and the bare minimum standards we should expect from any public servant — especially a former president. Thank you for your time and for standing up for responsible governance.

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