County spent $58,000 on Trump visit security

Flathead County incurred $58,000 in costs to secure President Donald Trump's October 14, 2026 visit to the Flathead Valley.

The expenses occurred during the week preceding the event and on the day itself. Sheriff's Office personnel worked overtime to assist the U.S. Secret Service and other federal agencies. These wages constituted the majority of the total amount. Additional logistical support and other county services generated minimal costs. The county did not track these secondary expenses separately.

This spending follows a pattern set by previous visits from former Vice Presidents Mike Pence and Dick Cheney. In those instances, the county also covered the costs without seeking federal reimbursement. County officials plan to maintain this practice for the current visit.

Flathead County Commission Chairman Brad Abell addressed the financial decision. "We have a duty to assist with security efforts during any presidential visit of this scale," Abell said. He added that hosting a sitting president was an honor for the county. Sheriff Brian Heino commented on the operational performance. "Securing an event of this size requires an extraordinary team effort, and our Sheriff's Office personnel and partner agencies rose to the occasion with complete professionalism," Heino said. He stated that the duty was to provide maximum security and protect everyone involved.

The county credited Sheriff's Office staff, county personnel, and partners from neighboring municipalities and county governments for the outcome. These groups collaborated to ensure a safe and successful visit. The $58,000 figure represents the total identified expenses for the security operations.