Report: MAGA Rallies Cost These 14 Cities $1.82 Million. But The Trump Campaign Isn’t Paying

TOPLINE

Fourteen cities across the country want Trump’s campaign to repay a combined $1.82 million in public safety costs incurred during the president’s “Make America Great Again” campaign rallies, arguing that the money is desperately needed in the fight against coronavirus, according to a report from the Center for Public Integrity.

KEY FACTS

CRUCIAL QUOTE 

“Without this money, we cannot help our most vulnerable, and I guarantee we do not have enough money to prevent lives lost and homes lost,” Spokane city council member Kate Burke told the Center for Public Integrity. Her Washington city has yet to be repaid for more than $65,000 in expenses during Trump’s 2016 campaign. 

BIG NUMBER

2,100. That’s how many U.S. cities expect a coronavirus-related budget shortfall this year, according to a new study. Together, these cities represent 93 million people. 

NEWS PEG 

Stalled economies across the country, fearing financial downturn, are turning to the federal government for help. Without additional funding, many may be forced to scale back public services, at a time when they are especially needed. “There’s no question that the coronavirus pandemic has had, and will have, a major impact on cities of all sizes,” Clarence Anthony, the executive director of the National League of Cities, told the Washington Post. At the same time, new hot spots are continuing to emerge across the country. Especially in states without full lockdowns, the number of new infections is rapidly increasing. Last week, South Dakota, whose governor came under fire for refusing to issue a stay at home order, saw a 205% increase in cases. Likewise, infections in Arkansas spiked by 60% and in Nebraska and Iowa, cases jumped by 74% and 82%, respectively, according to a report from CNN. 

TANGENT

President Trump’s reelection campaign announced on Friday that rallies will resume prior to the November election, despite public health concerns, according to Good Morning America. 

FURTHER READING

City Leaders To Trump: Help Us Fight The Coronavirus By Paying Your Bills (Center for Public Integrity)

More than 2,100 U.S. cities brace for budget shortfalls due to coronavirus, survey finds, with many planning cuts and layoffs (Washington Post)

Here Are The Billionaires Backing Donald Trump’s Campaign (Forbes)

Governors Call For $500 Billion To States Even After Top Republicans Say No (Forbes)

The $350 Billion Small Business Loan Program Is Officially Out Of Money. Lawmakers Can’t Agree On What Happens Next (Forbes)

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