Fact Check: "Secret Service golf cart rentals have skyrocketed to $550,930."
What We Know
The claim that "Secret Service golf cart rentals have skyrocketed to $550,930" is not substantiated by current data. According to reports, the Secret Service has indeed incurred significant expenses related to golf cart rentals, particularly during President Trump's visits to his golf clubs. For instance, in September 2018, it was reported that golf cart rentals at Trump's U.S. clubs had cost taxpayers approximately $300,675 (Quartz). More recently, a contract was signed for $45,000 to rent golf carts in Northern Virginia, which was described as an "emergency order" for a dignitary's protection (Washington Post).
Additionally, the Secret Service's total golf-related expenses, including costs associated with Trump's security detail, have been estimated at around $77 million, but this figure encompasses a broader range of expenses beyond just golf cart rentals (Quartz).
Analysis
The claim of $550,930 appears to be an exaggeration. While it is true that the Secret Service has incurred substantial costs for golf cart rentals, the most recent confirmed expenditure is $45,000 for a specific contract (Washington Post). The previous high reported was $300,675, which does not approach the claimed figure.
Moreover, the context of these expenses is important. The Secret Service has been reported to rent golf carts for operational security purposes during Trump's frequent visits to his golf clubs, which have occurred over 350 days of his presidency (Washington Post). However, the claim lacks any recent or credible evidence to support the assertion that golf cart rental costs have reached or exceeded $550,930.
The sources used in this analysis are reputable, with the Quartz article providing a detailed account of past expenditures and the Washington Post offering insights into recent contracts. Both sources are known for their investigative journalism, although they may have varying editorial slants. Nonetheless, the data presented does not support the claim of skyrocketing expenses to the stated amount.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that Secret Service golf cart rentals have skyrocketed to $550,930 is inaccurate. Current data indicates that while the Secret Service has incurred significant costs for golf cart rentals, the highest reported figure is $300,675, and a recent contract was signed for $45,000. There is no evidence to support the claim that expenses have reached the level stated.
