Trump Breaks Ground on $250 Million Ballroom at the White House

Thu Oct 23 2025 04:44:13 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Construction has begun on a large ballroom at the White House, reportedly funded entirely by private donations and expected to accommodate 999 guests.

President Donald Trump has initiated construction on a $250 million ballroom that will significantly expand the available event space at the White House, accommodating up to 999 guests. While the project has been touted as privately funded, initial statements claiming no demolitions would occur are contradicted by recent developments that involve tearing down part of the East Wing. The project aims to modernize the area while fulfilling Trump's vision for larger entertaining capabilities that avoid outdoor tents during events.

Construction has officially commenced on a lavish $250 million ballroom at the White House, intended to serve as a significant addition to the historic residence's event space. This ballroom will reportedly accommodate up to 999 guests, nearly doubling the capacity of the current largest event venue in the White House, the East Room.

Initially, officials—including Trump—had indicated that doing so would not involve any demolition. However, construction now requires tearing down a portion of the East Wing, which has brought about some contention among viewers and critics.

Trump, via social media, confirmed that the project will not tap into taxpayer money, asserting that it is financed through private donations from supporters, companies, and his own contributions. Notably, part of the funding—a promised $22 million—comes from a settlement with YouTube arising from a lawsuit Trump previously filed.

The ballroom is part of a broader effort to modernize the East Wing and expand the White House's capabilities for large-scale events without resorting to outdoor tents, as has been common practice in the past.

Funding and Controversy

The White House has reiterated that details regarding the individual donors and source breakdown will be disclosed eventually, but has yet to provide a comprehensive list to the public.

Throughout Trump’s presidency, he has made several changes to the White House's appearance and function, including heavy redecoration within the Oval Office and the lawn areas, adding to the residence’s legacy of architectural changes by past presidents. Critics have noted that previous projects often faced scrutiny but later became accepted as part of the White House's evolving character.

Future of the East Wing

The decision to build the ballroom prompted questions about the future of the East Wing, traditionally a social space within the White House. The area will not only serve the ballroom's needs but will also incorporate renovations intended to modernize its appearance and functionality.

The anticipated completion of the ballroom is set before Trump’s second term ends in January 2029, promising to add a striking architectural feature reminiscent of Trump's Mar-a-Lago ballroom, blending style with historic significance for future events.