Summary
President Donald Trump announced that the cost of a new ballroom at the White House has risen to $300 million, an increase from earlier estimates. Construction has started by demolishing part of the East Wing, despite concerns from preservation groups and questions about funding transparency.
Key Facts
- President Trump raised the estimated cost of a new White House ballroom to $300 million.
- The new estimate is $100 million higher than what was estimated in July.
- Construction has begun by dismantling part of the White House's East Wing.
- Critics argue that the ballroom project is unnecessary and lacks transparency.
- The National Trust for Historic Preservation has voiced concerns over the project.
- President Trump stated that the ballroom will be funded by private donations, but detailed donor information has not been disclosed.
- Some funding comes from a settlement related to Trump's YouTube account.
- Top business leaders attended a donor dinner for the project at the White House.
