Contract reveals fundraising deal for Trump's East Wing overhaul
Summary
A new contract reveals how President Donald Trump and his allies are raising $400 million to renovate the White House East Wing. The document shows the fundraising process, including how donations are collected, fees earned, and efforts to keep donor identities private.Key Facts
- The White House, National Park Service, and Trust for the National Mall signed a deal in October 2025 for the East Wing renovation fundraising.
- The Trust receives a 2.5% fee on money raised, which lowers to 2% once donations exceed $200 million, potentially earning about $9 million.
- Donor anonymity is guaranteed for those who choose it; so far, about three dozen donors are publicly named without disclosed donation amounts.
- The White House finds potential donors and refers them to the Trust while noting their anonymity preferences.
- Foreign donations are banned; donations over $25,000 require checks to ensure donors have no conflicts or lawsuits involving the Interior Department or National Park Service.
- The fundraising started before the official contract, with early pledge forms not mentioning the East Wing but referring to the White House Ballroom.
- Demolition of the East Wing began in October 2025 due to structural problems, allowing for expansion that includes a ballroom, offices, theater, kitchen, colonnade, and an underground bunker.
- The Trust states it manages donations only and is not involved in the actual building work or design.
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