Trump administration quietly shifts $352m in federal funds for White House ballroom
Funds meant for Secret Service were transferred to project president promised would be financed by private donations
TL;DR
- The Trump administration redirected $352 million in federal funds from the Secret Service to a White House ballroom project.
- President Trump had previously stated the project would be funded by private donations.
- The funds were drawn from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which restricts their use to Secret Service operations, not construction.
- Congress had previously refused to provide $1 billion for the "East Wing Modernization Project."
- The administration claims the project is tied to security needs, including "drone-proof structures."
- Lawmakers, including Senator Thom Tillis and Senator Brian Schatz, have expressed skepticism and concern.
- Internal records suggest public money from the Secret Service, White House military office, and executive residence is being used, alongside private contributions.
- Total costs for the project could reach $600 million.
- Private fundraising has drawn scrutiny due to potential conflicts of interest with corporate donors.
- The demolition of the East Wing is subject to ongoing legal challenges regarding congressional approval.