Overview
- Trump argued the current White House layout lacks space for major receptions, saying it cannot properly host Xi Jinping or similar high-profile gatherings.
- He has promoted a ballroom with capacity for up to 650 people, framing the project as a practical fix rooted in his construction background.
- Trump said Melania Trump initially disliked losing the East Wing offices traditionally used by first ladies but has since accepted the change.
- RIA Novosti reported the project at roughly $300 million and cited Trump describing the East Wing’s removal, while TASS detailed a $200 million hall near the East Wing with construction reported as having begun in October.
- Trump coupled the renovation push with partisan messaging, claiming Democrats would "break" the country within five months if they controlled the White House.