Trump claims private-funded White House ballroom includes hidden underground complex

President Donald Trump said Sunday that the White House is constructing a large underground complex beneath a new ballroom, which he described as being funded entirely by private donors. Trump stated the project includes security features such as bulletproof glass and drone-proof roofs.

Trump said the underground construction is already underway and is linked to broader security measures for the White House. He described the ballroom as serving a dual purpose, both as an event space and as part of the security upgrades. The project aims to expand capacity for large gatherings, as current rooms are too small for major events, according to Trump.

The new ballroom, approved in February by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, is expected to cost around $400 million. It will be built on the site of the former East Wing, which was demolished in October. The project is designed to match the White House’s architectural style and scale, Trump said.

Trump emphasized that the entire cost is paid by private donors and not government funds. “All of the money paid is paid by myself and donors… it’s all donors,” he said. He also claimed construction is progressing ahead of schedule and under budget.

Democrats have questioned the project, citing concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. The project has drawn attention amid broader debates over security and funding at the White House.

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