In a bold expansion of the White House, President Donald Trump has announced the addition of a new ballroom designed to accommodate 900 guests, up from the initially planned 650, NBC News reported.
This larger ballroom is part of a broader renovation, marking the most extensive White House exterior renovation since 1942.The project, estimated to cost $200 million, is funded partly by Trump himself and contributions from donors dubbed "patriots."
Trump's background in real estate development strongly influences the project's vision. "We’re making it a little bigger. It will be top of the line, as good as it can get anywhere in the world," he explained during an interview with NBC News.
Pointing out the active construction on the White House South Lawn, Trump said, "Right there you see all the trucks," highlighting the commencement of work.
The capacity of the new ballroom is nearly 40% larger than initially planned, aiming to avoid the use of temporary structures for events.
The new facility replaces the East Wing's current office space, primarily used by the First Lady and her staff, altering a significant section of the White House.
This change is noted as the most considerable shift in the White House's external structure since the East Wing's development in 1942 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
This strategic expansion is intended to host larger state events more fittingly and with enhanced grandeur.
Meanwhile, Trump is preparing for an upcoming state visit to England, where he will attend a state banquet at Windsor Castle hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
This visit marks his second state journey to the country, following his initial visit in 2019 at the invitation of then-Queen Elizabeth. "It’s going to be incredible. It’s such a great honor," Trump commented on the upcoming visit.
The state visit to England also follows the tragic assassination of Trump's friend and political ally, Charlie Kirk, blending personal sorrow with presidential duties.
Each of these events—domestic expansions and international diplomacy—highlights a presidency aiming to forge a robust legacy both through strengthened international alliances and domestic infrastructural enhancements.
"I look forward to saying hello to Charles and Camilla," Trump noted, emphasizing his anticipation of the diplomatic engagements awaiting him in England.
As the construction of the ballroom progresses, it symbolizes a stride towards achieving a more dynamic and potent presidency, in tune with Trump’s broader administrative ethos.
