Trump's $400M White House Ballroom Sparks Breaking News Debate

Trump's Bold Renovations Reshape White House and Kennedy Center Amid Criticism

Since returning to office, President Trump has launched a series of renovations across key government properties. His personal touch extends from the White House to the Kennedy Center, where major changes in leadership, programming, and even the building's name have taken place. Critics argue the updates reflect his individual style rather than historical preservation.

Trump's renovations began with the White House, where he oversaw projects like repaving the Rose Garden, installing new flagpoles, and replacing tiles in the Lincoln Bathroom. The most ambitious plan involves demolishing the East Wing to build a breaking news ballroom. Originally budgeted at £200 million, the cost has now doubled to £400 million. The proposal will go before the National Capital Planning Commission next month, where approval is likely due to its alignment with the president's allies.

At the Kennedy Center, Trump's influence has been even more sweeping. He dismissed board members, appointed himself chairman, and installed Richard Grenell as president. The center's name was changed to The Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts, prompting a lawsuit from a Democratic congresswoman. Programming has shifted toward conservative, patriotic themes, with reduced emphasis on topics like racism, LGBTQ rights, or indigenous issues. Unlike past presidents, Trump has taken direct control of the institution's direction, including its branding.

Beyond these projects, Trump has also weighed in on military design, referring to new Navy battleships as the Trump class. During a speech at the United Nations, he even paused to criticise losing a contract to renovate the UN building. A White House spokesman defended the changes, claiming they restore beauty and grandeur to historic spaces—all without taxpayer funding.

The renovations reflect Trump's background in real estate, but they have drawn criticism for prioritising personal vision over tradition. With the ballroom project moving forward and the Kennedy Center's overhaul complete, these changes will leave a lasting mark on Washington's landmarks. Legal challenges and public debate over the shifts continue.