President Donald Trump on Tuesday defended the expansion of the White House ballroom, which he said has doubled in size, while dismissing a reporter’s question as he departed for China. Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn, Trump stated the project is 'under budget, on budget, and ahead of schedule,' despite its cost rising from an initial $200 million to $400 million. When pressed by a reporter about the size increase, Trump responded, 'I doubled the size of it, you dumb person. You are not a smart person.'
The ballroom project, replacing the demolished East Wing, has faced scrutiny over its fluctuating costs and funding sources. Trump has maintained it will be privately funded, though Senate Republicans have proposed $1 billion for security enhancements linked to the project. Senate Homeland Security Committee Chair Rand Paul (R-Ky.) suggested the funding may be removed before the bill advances. White House officials met with Senate Republicans to detail the security components, which include hardening the complex and visitor screening facilities.
The project’s expansion comes amid heightened security concerns following the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner last month. Trump has emphasized the need for a larger ballroom, citing its higher quality and increased size compared to original plans.