The construction of Trump’s $250 million White House ballroom is becoming a highly contentious political issue, with critics questioning its $250 million cost and its impact on historic East Wing space.
The project, which replaces the East Wing with a large event space for hosting world leaders, has ignited debates over Trump’s influence on the White House. The White House has pledged to release details on the individuals and corporations funding the ballroom, but a comprehensive list of donors has not yet been released.
While the White House has hosted countless ceremonial events, it has never had a dedicated ballroom. The new structure will fill that void, replacing the historic East Wing with a space designed instead to host large-scale gatherings. The ballroom is estimated to cost $250 million and will be financed jointly by Trump and private donors.
During a July 31 briefing, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt detailed the administration’s plans to construct a 90,000-square-foot ballroom on the White House grounds. Leavitt said the new ballroom will accommodate approximately 650 seated guests and will stay true to the classical design of the White House.
Leavitt added that the new ballroom will be “a much-needed and exquisite addition.” She also mentioned that the White House is currently unable to host major functions honoring world leaders in other countries without having to install a large and unsightly tent approximately 100 yards away from the main building’s entrance.