President Trump defended the escalating costs of his White House ballroom project on Saturday, asserting that the space will be “much bigger and more beautiful” when finished.
Trump criticized CNN’s chief White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins for questioning the rising price tag, calling her coverage “Stupid and Nasty” on Truth Social and emphasizing that the project’s size and quality of finishes had been significantly upgraded. He added that the column span had been increased for improved viewing and insisted that the project is “actually under budget and ahead of schedule,” funded entirely through private donations rather than taxpayer dollars.
Originally estimated at $200 million in July, the ballroom’s projected cost quickly climbed to $300 million, with a White House official later suggesting $350 million. The construction required the full demolition of the East Wing in October, sparking criticism despite assurances that the work would not interfere with surrounding structures. Major corporations, including Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, Lockheed Martin, Comcast, Microsoft, Palantir, Union Pacific Railroad, and T-Mobile, have contributed to the project, alongside Trump’s personal finances.
Architect Shalom Baranes, known for designing government buildings, has now taken over from James McCrery II, who will remain as a consultant. A White House spokesperson praised Baranes’ decades of experience and contribution to the capital’s architectural identity.
The project drew sharp criticism from historians, lawmakers, and former White House residents. Former first lady Michelle Obama called the renovations “a loss for us as a nation,” while Chelsea Clinton likened it to a “wrecking ball to our heritage.” Meanwhile, former White House aide Michael LaRosa described the changes as “sad” but “probably needed.”
The corporate donor list has also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, with Sen. Elizabeth Warren and 10 other Democratic lawmakers questioning whether contributions could influence antitrust investigations. Public sentiment reflects controversy: an October Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll found that 56 percent of Americans “somewhat” or “strongly” oppose the project.