Mayor Muriel Bowser says Trump celebration and protests have drained Washington State's security fund



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The emergency planning and security fund will be exhausted by the end of fiscal 2019 and will exceed the budget by more than $ 6 million, Bowser said in a letter to the president on Tuesday citing recent estimates from the District Security Agency and District Emergency Management. .

Bowser has asked the Trump administration to commit to full repayment of the fund, which provides public safety at events in Washington, support for terrorist threats or terrorist attacks in the district, and responds to requests US secret services.

"We are asking you to help us ensure that the people of the District of Columbia are not required to cover millions of dollars in federal spending and can maintain our high standards of protection for federal events," wrote Bowser.

Judd Deere, White House spokesman, said the White House had received the letter "and that it will respond as soon as possible".

"President Trump has led our nation in a great salute to the United States and has recognized the courage of the sacrifices our men and women have committed to service throughout history," Deere said in a statement. .

In his letter, the mayor of Washington DC also mentioned $ 7.3 million in expenses related to the inauguration of Mr. Trump in 2017, "increased demand for enhanced security" and "major events". "unforeseen", such as the funeral of President George HW Bush as factors contributing to the depletion of the fund.

Bowser said Congress had allocated about $ 13 million to the fund "for the past few years," while the city's annual spending was around $ 16.5 million.

"It is essential that the EPSF receive full reimbursement of these funds to ensure that the district can maintain adequate security and support during the rest of the year without generating a deficit for federal activities." , wrote Bowser.

Trump's unprecedented July 4th celebration, which included military flights, tanks, music, and remarks by the president, drew attention to exorbitant spending. Despite criticism, Trump has announced plans to bring the event back to 2020 and "in the foreseeable future".

This story has been updated.

CNN's Gregory Wallace contributed to this report.

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