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Trump's $250M ballroom project sparks controversy

Today, 21/10/2025, 12:32
Trump's $250M ballroom project sparks controversy
The White House's new ballroom by McCrery Architects. Image courtesy of: © McCrery Architects/The White House

Demolition has commenced at the White House East Wing as part of President Donald Trump’s ambitious plan to build a massive ballroom. Photos obtained by the Washington Post reveal significant portions of the facade have already been removed.

Trump acknowledged the project Monday on Truth Social following widespread media coverage of the demolition images. He described the East Wing renovation as a “complete modernization.”

“For over 150 years, every president has envisioned a White House ballroom capable of hosting guests for major celebrations and state visits,” Trump wrote in his statement.

Quarter-billion dollar price tag

The initiative carries an estimated price tag of $250 million, ranking among the most substantial construction undertakings at the presidential residence in more than a century.

Plans call for an 90,000-square-foot ballroom with capacity for 650 guests.

The Washington Post reports Trump has provided assurances the construction won’t “disrupt” the historic structure. According to the president, private donations from individuals and corporations will fund the project entirely, with no taxpayer dollars involved.

Completion is slated for January 2029, though the project has already generated significant pushback over its expense and what critics view as questionable priorities.

#usa #white house
Nils Lund