Trump justifies higher cost of ‘larger and more exquisite’ ballroom despite backlash

President Donald Trump defended the increasing expenses of his White House ballroom renovation on Saturday, stating that the final space will be significantly larger and more impressive than initially planned.

Trump responded to criticism on social media, addressing questions about the rising price. He targeted CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins, claiming the higher costs are due to the ballroom being double the original size with premium finishes. He emphasized that the project remains on schedule and reportedly under budget.

The ballroom is designed to be larger and more elegant than first outlined. Notably, no taxpayer funds are involved; it is fully financed by private donations, Trump wrote.

Originally announced at $200 million in July, the ballrooms estimated cost quickly increased, with Trump mentioning $300 million and a later report estimating $350 million. Despite previous assurances that construction would not impact existing structures, the project involved the full demolition of the East Wing in October, sparking public debate.

The White House disclosed major corporate donors contributing to the project, including Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, Lockheed Martin, Comcast, Microsoft, Palantir, Union Pacific Railroad, and T-Mobile. Trump has also contributed personal funds.

James McCrery II and his architecture firm initially oversaw the project, but Shalom Baranes, a long-time designer of government buildings, has been appointed as lead architect, with McCrery remaining as a consultant. A White House spokesperson praised Baranes experience as valuable for completing the ballroom.

The renovation and demolition have faced criticism from lawmakers, historians, and former White House residents. Former First Lady Michelle Obama described the changes as a cultural loss, while other figures called it both regrettable and necessary. Chelsea Clinton likened the work to a wrecking ball to our heritage.

Concerns have also arisen regarding the donor list, with Senator Elizabeth Warren and other Democrats questioning potential conflicts of interest. Polling data from October indicates that 56% of Americans express some level of opposition to the extensive project.

Author: Benjamin Carter