US President Donald Trump is seeking to establish a presidential retreat similar to Camp David at his Florida golf club.
Trump said on Wednesday that the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach could provide a secure location where presidents could spend weekends.
“It’s only about two minutes away from the airport and they could spend the weekend there, like a retreat, like a sort of Camp David retreat.”
Under the proposal, the golf club would cover construction costs as a “gift” to Americans and provide free membership to future presidents. It would also offer accommodation and facilities for visiting foreign leaders.
Trump said the idea was first suggested by Secret Service officials and that he supported it.
“It’s about as safe as they could possibly get.”
Trump said the location had advantages because there were no high-rise buildings or homes overlooking the golf course. “They can get maximum safety. It’s a great idea and it’ll be used a lot.”
A letter dated 3 September from an attorney representing the golf club to the county commission said Trump had offered to designate the property as a US Presidential Golf Course according to USA TODAY’s Palm Beach Post.
The letter said the club would provide access to its facilities at no cost to the federal government and offer free membership to future presidents.
It also said the club would cover construction costs as a “gift” to Americans and local residents. “This wouldn’t be for me, This would be for all future presidents.”
The proposed retreat would differ sharply from Camp David, the secluded presidential retreat in Maryland’s Catoctin Mountain Park.
Camp David was first used as a presidential retreat by President Franklin Roosevelt, who called it “Shangri-La.”The facility is operated by the US military and is staffed by members of the Navy and Marine Corps.
The heavily secured site is largely hidden from public view, with restricted airspace and limited media access.
Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach is a 27-hole private club with a clubhouse, restaurants, a gift shop and other facilities. The property is regularly visited by Trump and his political allies when he is in Florida.
Trump has also pursued major changes to the White House and other projects in Washington, including plans for a ballroom and a proposed triumphal arch.
Asked whether the proposed retreat could be called “Camp Donald,” Trump rejected the suggestion. “Well, it’s already called Trump International. It’s one of the best golf courses in the world.”
The US Secret Service has been contacted for comment.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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