Trump’s cronies should pay for his ballroom

The president is asking U.S. taxpayers to pay $400 million for a place they likely will never set foot in

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Editorials

May 1, 2026 - 3:05 PM

The demolition of the East Wing of the White House is part of President Donald Trump's plan to build a ballroom. The plan has ballooned to $400 million which he initially said would be funded by private donations. He has since requested U.S. taxpayers foot the bill. (Alex Wong/Getty Images/TNS)

Less than 48 hours after an attempt on President Donald Trump’s life, some Republicans in Congress asked that the president’s proposed ballroom, now with a price tag of $400 million, be paid for with tax dollars instead of private donations as a national security need.

Both funding sources are ridiculous, but putting the burden squarely on the backs of regular taxpayers is downright offensive.

Trump said the ballroom is needed to provide more space and better security for official affairs of state at The White House. Some Washington insiders agree that it is…

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