Overview
- The White House named Shalom Baranes to lead the ballroom build and said previous lead James McCrery will remain as an adviser.
- Current targets have grown to roughly $300 million with capacity claims up to 1,000 guests, up from earlier notions of $200 million and 650.
- Trump ordered the East Wing demolished in October to clear space, drawing protests from preservation groups and criticism from opposition lawmakers.
- The National Capital Planning Commission has not received a formal submission, and its review could affect the project's size; senior Trump aide Will Scharf oversees the commission.
- Officials praise Baranes's record in Washington, while the White House touts private donor funding for an opulent design featuring gold detailing, stucco and large chandeliers.