The Trump administration announced plans for a new $250 million White House ballroom, replacing the East Wing. President Trump and private donors will fund the project to create a dedicated large-scale event space.
Details of New White House Ballroom Project
The administration plans to construct a 90,000-square-foot ballroom on the White House grounds. This new structure will accommodate approximately 650 seated guests for major functions.
The project is intended to stay true to the classical design of the White House and fill the void of a dedicated ballroom.
Trump and Private Donors to Fund Construction
President Donald Trump and a group of private donors will finance the estimated $250 million cost. This funding model for the Trump White House ballroom project has drawn public attention over who is funding the new White House ballroom.
A comprehensive breakdown of the individuals and corporations contributing has not yet been made public, though the White House has pledged to release those details.
Administration Calls Ballroom a ‘Needed Addition’
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt explained the necessity for the new construction. She noted the White House currently must erect a large tent for major events with world leaders. “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,” Leavitt stated.
She called the project “a much-needed and exquisite addition.“
Construction Sparks Political Debate and Scrutiny
The plan for the White House East Wing replacement has become a political lightning rod, sparking debate over the president’s influence on the historic residence. Officials detailed the plans during a White House briefing on July 31.
The project aims to resolve the long-standing logistical challenges of hosting large-scale formal gatherings.
