President Donald Trump has taken journalists on a tour of the construction site for the new White House ballroom, defending the project as Congress balks at its $1bn (£800m) security costs. Speaking over the noise of heavy machinery, Trump insisted the $400m building costs would be covered by private donors, including himself, but acknowledged the administration has requested taxpayer money for security upgrades.
The Senate parliamentarian has ruled that the funding cannot be included in a bill to finance immigrant enforcement agencies, and several Republican lawmakers have expressed concern over the price tag during an election year when voters are facing high prices due to the Iran war and oil supply disruptions. Trump highlighted the building's security features, including a 'drone-proof' roof made of 'very strong steel' that would serve as a 'drone port' to protect Washington, D.C.
The ballroom, which replaces the former East Wing, will include a military hospital, research facilities, offices for the first lady, and a full-service kitchen, in addition to a ballroom for 1,000 guests. Trump said the building would go six stories underground and described it as 'one well-knit building'. He claimed the project would be completed by September 2028, less than six months before his term ends.
However, the project faces opposition: a recent poll found 56% of US adults oppose the demolition of the East Wing, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation has sued to halt construction until Congress approves the plans. Trump sidestepped questions about whether he would contribute more personal funds if Congress rejects the $1bn security funding request.
