Today, Governor Tina Kotek announced that President Donald Trump’s unlawful federalization of members of the Oregon National Guard could cost taxpayers up to $10 million, according to the Oregon Military Department (OMD). This accounts for salaries, supplies, food, lodging, and other costs associated with deploying 200 individuals for a period of 60 days. The Department of War has not disclosed details and scope of the mission, which could incur additional costs.

“Our country and our state should be focused on solving real problems,” Governor Kotek said. “Wasting an estimated $10 million dollars on made up problems is an insult to Americans who are struggling with the cost of living, access to affordable health care, safety in their neighborhoods, and more. Not only is this an abuse of power, it is a dereliction of the president’s duty to solve real problems.”

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