Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) took a swing at President Donald Trump over the reported $900 million White House ballroom project, arguing the administration should spend more time easing the financial squeeze on everyday Americans.
Schumer and Democrats Blast Trump's $900 Million White House Ballroom Plan: '$0 to Lower Your Costs'
MarketDash
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and other Democrats criticize the Trump administration's reported $900 million White House construction projects, urging focus on easing Americans' financial burdens.
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Schumer's Critique of the Ballroom Project
On Wednesday, Schumer posted on X, contrasting the hefty price tag of the White House project with the lack of action to reduce household expenses.
"As inflation continues to spiral out of control and gas prices remain well above $4, this is how Donald Trump is spending your taxpayer dollars," he wrote.
He added, "$900 million for a gilded ballroom at the White House. $0 to lower your costs."
"The Trump White House in a nutshell," Schumer said.
Democrats Join the Criticism
Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) chimed in, saying the administration's $900 million White House projects come as Americans struggle with higher costs, describing the spending as "vanity projects."
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) called the spending wasteful and abusive, arguing taxpayer money is being used for a "vanity project" while Americans face financial pressures.
Details of the White House Construction Plans
The Trump administration had planned at least $927 million in White House construction projects, including a $600 million East Wing ballroom, helipad, visitor center and other upgrades, reported The Washington Post.
The administration had shifted about $875 million into a White House maintenance account, including hundreds of millions from the Secret Service and White House Military Office, while also receiving private donations.
The move raised concerns because Congress had not directly approved much of the spending.
A federal appeals court ruled that Congress had to approve the ballroom project, saying the president could not independently authorize such major construction. Trump planned to appeal the ruling.
Setbacks for Trump's White House Projects
Earlier, Trump's proposed $400 million White House ballroom has faced legal and funding setbacks. A federal appeals court blocked above-ground construction, ruling that congressional approval was required.
Trump called the decision a national security threat and vowed to appeal to the Supreme Court.
Meanwhile, Trump ordered crews to redo portions of the new White House granite helipad after objecting to its appearance.
The helipad is intended to support safer Marine One landings and protect the South Lawn.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by MarketDash editors.
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