Plans by President Donald Trump to construct a grand new ballroom at the White House are part of a long tradition of presidential desires for more entertaining space, according to the residence's longest-serving top aide.
A History of Presidential Expansion
Gary Walters, who served as White House chief usher for a record 21 years under presidents from Ronald Reagan to George W. Bush, provided context in an interview about his memoir. He stated that every president he served discussed the possibility of an enlarged area for hosting events.
President Trump has talked about building a White House ballroom for years, even prior to his political career. In July 2025, the White House announced a 90,000-square-foot space to be built on the east side, initially estimated to cost $200 million and seat 650 guests. Trump stated it would be funded by private donations, including his own.
By October, the two-story East Wing had been demolished to make way for the project, with the President later revising the capacity to 999 people. In December, the estimated price tag doubled to $400 million.
Limited Space and Soggy Tents
Walters explained that the capacity of the White House's public rooms was always a primary topic with new administrations. The State Dining Room can hold about 130 for a state dinner, while the East Room fits roughly 300 chairs. All the presidents Walters served bemoaned these limitations.
President Trump frequently complains both rooms are too small and has criticised the use of large tents on the South Lawn for major events. Walters confirmed the tents were problematic, causing water to pool and damage the grass despite efforts to dig drainage culverts.
The demolition of the East Wing shocked many, but Walters noted the White House campus has a long history of change. This includes the 1902 construction of the West Wing, the addition of a third floor to the residence, and the building of the East Wing itself during World War II to house the First Lady's staff.
From Broken Ankle to Historic Tenure
Walters' own path to becoming the longest-serving chief usher was accidental. In early 1970, after Army service, he joined the Executive Protective Service but broke his ankle before graduation. This led to a temporary White House assignment where he gained crucial knowledge of the building's security and layout.
He joined the Usher's Office as an assistant in 1976 and was elevated to chief usher by President Reagan a decade later. He managed a staff of about 90 and oversaw all residence operations until his retirement in 2007 after 37 years of service.
Reflecting on his career spanning seven presidents from Nixon to George W. Bush, Walters wrote that the greatest honour was getting to know the First Families directly. His personal connection to the now-demolished East Wing is also deep: he met his wife Barbara there, who was a receptionist during the Nixon and Ford administrations.
