Construction has officially begun on a new ballroom at the White House, a project championed by President Donald Trump. Heavy machinery was observed dismantling part of the East Wing, marking the start of a significant renovation that aims to fulfill a historical desire for a ballroom that has existed for over a century.
During a recent event honoring the Louisiana State University baseball team, Trump expressed enthusiasm about the project. “We’re building a ballroom. They’ve wanted a ballroom for 150 years, and I’m giving that honor to this wonderful place,” he stated. The new ballroom is expected to span 90,000 square feet and accommodate nearly 1,000 people. The estimated cost for this ambitious addition is around $250 million, with funding sourced from private donors and Trump’s personal contributions. Notably, air conditioning manufacturer Carrier has confirmed its donation of the HVAC system for the ballroom.
Renovations at the White House are not uncommon. According to the White House Historical Association, every president and first lady has made their mark on the residence, sometimes in controversial ways that have later been embraced as iconic. The ballroom addition is poised to be the most substantial change since the installation of the Truman balcony in 1948.
In addition to the ballroom, Trump has also transformed the Rose Garden into a patio area, where he hosted Republican senators for lunch this week. “You probably hear the beautiful sound of construction to the back. You hear that sound? That’s music to my ears; I love that sound when I hear that sound, it reminds me of money,” he commented, highlighting his enthusiasm for ongoing renovations.
Despite the excitement surrounding the project, it has drawn criticism from some political figures. California Governor Gavin Newsom took to social media platform X to express his disapproval, stating, “Trump’s priorities: bulldozing the White House (with a green check mark) — reopening the government — (with a red x emoji).” Additionally, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has spoken against the project, deeming it unnecessary. On July 31, 2023, Schumer remarked, “He announced plans to build himself a new White House ballroom so he can eat his cheeseburgers in there in luxury. Listen, I’m happy to eat my cheeseburger at my desk; I don’t need a $200 million ballroom to eat it in.”
As construction progresses, the East Wing, which houses offices for the first lady and her staff, will undergo temporary relocation. Photos of the demolition have circulated widely, prompting the Treasury Department to advise employees against taking pictures without prior permission from the White House.
This ballroom project not only reflects Trump’s vision for the White House but also raises questions about priorities and spending at a time when various governmental issues remain unresolved. The full list of donors contributing to this significant renovation has yet to be disclosed, but the project underscores the ongoing evolution of one of the most recognized residences in the world.
