CBO Estimates National Guard Deployments to Exceed $1 Billion This Year

Jordi Bashirian

Published: January 28, 2026 5:37 PM ET

According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the cost of National Guard deployments in the U.S. is expected to exceed $1 billion this year. This estimate comes amid ongoing domestic military operations, particularly in response to protests and crime in various cities.

CBO Estimates National Guard Deployments to Exceed $1 Billion This Year

The CBO’s projections indicate that if current deployment levels continue, the National Guard’s expenses could reach up to $1.1 billion in 2023. These figures highlight the financial implications of maintaining a military presence in multiple locations across the country.

Details of Current Deployments

As of now, approximately 2,690 National Guard members are stationed in Washington, D.C., contributing significantly to the overall cost. The operation in the capital alone is projected to reach around $660 million if these troops remain deployed through December 2023. This monthly deployment is estimated to cost an additional $93 million.

Locations and Costs

Washington, D.C.: $660 million projected for 2023
Los Angeles: $193 million for previous deployments
Chicago: $21 million for deployments
Portland, Ore.: $26 million for deployed troops
Memphis: $33 million incurred

These figures stem from data requested by U.S. senators who raised concerns about the impact on national resources. Senator Jeff Merkley from Oregon emphasized that funds spent on military deployments could be better used for healthcare and education.

Impact on National Budget and Security Considerations

The financial burden of these deployments is notable given that the U.S. defense budget is set to exceed $1 trillion for the first time in history. Experts like Gabe Murphy from Taxpayers for Common Sense argue that deploying the National Guard for crime-related issues is not an effective long-term solution, as these members cannot perform traditional law enforcement duties like arrests.

Further complicating the issue, if President Trump decides to increase troop levels, estimates suggest that each additional 1,000 soldiers will cost up to $21 million.

Historical Context and Future Considerations

This current deployment mirrors past instances when a significant number of Guard troops were mobilized, such as the 25,000 troops sent to D.C. following the January 6 Capitol attack. Such deployments can divert funds from essential military training and readiness, highlighting the budgetary impacts of ongoing military actions within the U.S.

As discussions on military deployments continue, the balance between security needs and budget constraints remains a critical consideration for policymakers.