California launches strike force to ease 2028 Olympics preparations in Los Angeles

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the creation of a new 'strike force' aimed at reducing bureaucratic delays and ensuring smooth coordination among state agencies, local governments, and LA28, the nonprofit organizing the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The strike force will be led by Jamie Callahan, a senior advisor to Newsom, who will serve as executive director of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Delivery and Coordination Strike Team. The team’s goal is to facilitate cooperation among more than a dozen state agencies and local governments in Los Angeles and neighboring cities.

Several state agencies already have roles in preparing for the Games. The California Office of Emergency Services is coordinating a large police presence from across the state and western U.S. to help secure the events, while the California Department of Transportation is planning highway and freeway improvements and a public campaign to reduce car traffic during the Games.

Governor Newsom emphasized that the strike force will help California deliver a world-class event showcasing the state’s strengths. The announcement also highlighted prior state funding exceeding $100 million for upgrades and modernization projects related to the Summer Olympics.

Coordination efforts have already begun with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover to ensure all parties are aligned for the 2028 Games, which are expected to attract up to 2 million visitors to Southern California.

The U.S. Secret Service will retain ultimate authority over security during the Olympics, with state agencies supporting their efforts.