Every president adds their own style to the White House. Some hang new curtains. Some swap paintings. Donald Trump is going full gold. He’s remodeling the Oval Office with gold chairs, gold curtains, gold trim, and golden accents on almost every surface.
And that’s just the warm-up.
Trump has ordered a $200 million ballroom to be built near the East Wing. It will be 90,000 square feet and filled with crystal chandeliers, imported stone, and custom floors.
Construction starts in September.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news!
Subscribe and start recieving our daily emails.
Trump says the White House should have had a ballroom long ago. “They’ve wanted a ballroom for more than 150 years,” he told reporters. “But there’s never been a president who was good at ballrooms. I’m good at building things and we’re going to build quickly and on time. It’ll be beautiful.”
He added that the ballroom will not touch the main building. “It pays total respect to the existing structure,” he said. “It’s my favorite place. I love it.”
But while Trump is laying gold carpet, 17 million Americans are losing health care. His administration slashed coverage just weeks ago. At the same time, school meal programs are being cut, leaving thousands of children without lunch.
So now there’s no money for doctors or food — but somehow there’s $200 million for gold walls.
Senator Chuck Schumer gave a sharp response. “I’m happy to eat my cheeseburger at my desk,” he said. “I don’t need a $200 million ballroom to eat it in.”
Trump’s taste has never been subtle. His penthouse in Trump Tower is covered in gold. Mar-a-Lago is filled with golden tables, gold railings, and gold statues. Now, he’s bringing that same over-the-top style to the most important office in the world.
The White House insists the project is about “national pride.” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the new ballroom will help host historic events and attract global attention. But many Americans say the timing feels cruel.
Hospitals are packed. Schools are falling apart. Food prices are high. But the president is busy ordering luxury materials and designing custom chandeliers.
Featured image via X screengrab
