Trump slammed for approving $200M gold-plated WH ballroom after major health care cuts: 'Waste of money'

WASHINGTON, DC:  President Donald Trump’s decision to approve a $200 million gold-plated ballroom for the White House has triggered a political firestorm just days after he signed legislation stripping health care coverage from millions of Americans.

The White House confirmed Thursday, July 31, that the new “State Ballroom” will begin construction in September, replacing the historic East Wing. 

Trump told reporters the ballroom was a project he had wanted to build since his first term and explained why it was necessary. He claimed he was busy running the country, fighting for survival from the 'lunatics' he was trying to beat in his first term in office.

"People are schlopping to the tent. It's not a pretty sight. The women with their lovely evening gowns, all of their hair all done, and they're a mess by the time they get in. They've always wanted to have it, " he reasoned. 

Karoline Leavitt unveils $200 million White House ballroom project

Spanning 90,000 square feet, the ballroom will feature gold-leaf ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and space to seat over 650 guests.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the extravagant project as “a much-needed and exquisite addition” to logistical issues plaguing large diplomatic gatherings, citing the need to avoid “unsightly” outdoor tents.

“The White House is one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the world,” Leavitt said. “Yet it is currently unable to host major functions honoring world leaders and other countries without having to install a large and unsightly tent.”

Although Leavitt stated that the ballroom would be financed by Trump himself and “unspecified private donors,” the lack of transparency around funding has raised eyebrows, especially given the project’s price tag and its impact on a national landmark.

Outrage grows over timing, cost, and contrast with public cuts

The timing of the announcement, coming less than a week after Medicaid rollbacks and the elimination of key public health programs, was met with immediate backlash from critics across the political spectrum.

“Trump is spending $200 million of our tax dollars on a ‘golden ballroom’ in the White House, but we ‘can’t afford’ pediatric cancer research,” said Jo Carducci, a podcaster. “Donald Trump wants your kids to go with fewer dolls while he gets a billion-dollar airplane and a ballroom.”

Former Ohio State Senator Nina Turner didn’t hold back in her criticism, stating bluntly, “The White House gets a ballroom while Americans have their healthcare cut. Cannot make this up.”

New York Senator and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer had a lot to say about the $200 million ballroom.

In a video, he is seen standing and giving his two cents about it. He can be heard saying, "$200 million for Trump’s large, fancy White House ballroom. That’s what DOGE was for. Not to save money for you. To give money for some fancy place for Trump."

Even some Republicans expressed unease. Former South Carolina lawmaker Bakari Sellers called out the hypocrisy, referencing recent GOP outrage over Federal Reserve renovations despite that project being self-funded.

“Dear @SenatorTimScott, weren’t you concerned about costs overruns at the FED last week?” he asked. “How does a $200M ballroom jive?”

Internet in fury after Trump approves $200 million gold-plated WH ballroom while slashing health care

Public outrage surged across social media after President Donald Trump approved a lavish $200 million renovation project to add a gold-plated ballroom to the White House, a decision announced just days after signing a deeply controversial bill that slashed health care coverage for millions of Americans.

Users blasted the White House’s latest announcement, calling it tone-deaf.

“There goes the hard-earned taxpayer's money,” one user wrote bluntly.

“Oh cool, that doesn’t sound like a waste of money at all,” another added sarcastically.

“Weird how POTUS wants to fire Jerome Powell for also spending money on renovations,” a user noted.

Critics say the ballroom project, reportedly featuring gold accents, imported marble, and custom chandeliers, symbolizes everything wrong with Trump’s leadership.

“This administration’s priorities are way off. Why would you brag about building grand ballrooms when we can’t afford housing and groceries?” one person asked.

“Yes, spend it all, every last dime, until the whole country goes broke,” another wrote.

“The Trump administration just announced they will be building a massive $200 million gold-plated ballroom at the White House after signing a law cutting 17 million Americans’ health care,” one person summarized furiously.

One meme depicted Trump dressed in ornate 18th-century-style garb, captioned, “We need to re-decorate the ballroom for 200 Million Dollars!” — Donald Antoinette Trump.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.