President Donald Trump took reporters on a tour of the new giant ballroom construction site at the White House and revealed details of the "mega project" worth 13 billion baht, which resembles a military bunker, complete with drone defense systems, a rooftop drone operations base, and an underground military hospital, amid criticism that it is extravagant and out of step with the American economy.
U.S. President Donald Trump surprised many by informally leading the press on a tour of the massive new ballroom construction within the White House, revealing previously undisclosed classified security details amid the sounds of hammers and power saws.
The 8,361-square-meter banquet hall is being built to overshadow the original White House, constructed in the late 18th century. Trump claimed the White House needs a large hall to accommodate over 1,000 guests for hosting foreign leaders with due honor, an idea that emerged after he was nearly assassinated during a media gala at a Washington hotel.
The former billionaire real estate mogul described the ballroom’s features, noting the upper structure is influenced by ancient Greek and Roman architecture and has four-inch-thick windows made from special transparent glass that appears invisible.
A key highlight is the "bunker" style security system and military-like structure, including a six-story underground military hospital. Trump stated that the subterranean area, currently two floors under construction, will serve as a military hospital, advanced research center, and strategic planning meeting rooms, with the ballroom above acting as a complete shield against external attacks.
The roof structure is made of unmatched steel mixed with titanium, which Trump boasts can repel drones entirely: "If a drone hits it, it will bounce off without a scratch." Additionally, the entire roof is designed as a large drone base capable of deploying unlimited combat drones to protect all Washington airspace.
"This is a gift to America, and it's my personal money combined with donations, and it’s tax-free," Trump proudly said beside the construction site’s steel railing.
However, the structure faces fierce opposition from Congress members, especially Democrats and some Republicans, as construction costs have doubled from the original $200 million to $400 million (around 13 billion baht).
Trump has also requested Congress to approve an additional $1 billion (about 32.74 billion baht) in public tax funds to upgrade the building's security systems. The opposition views this as excessive spending while Americans struggle with record-high fuel prices and living costs, consequences of the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.
This issue has become a key weapon for Democrats to attack Republicans ahead of the crucial midterm elections in November, aiming to win a congressional majority. They cited Trump’s comment last week saying, "I’m not thinking about the financial situation of the American people" when discussing the Iran war, accusing the U.S. leader of neglecting citizens’ welfare.
The project has also angered conservationists due to the unannounced demolition of the historic "East Wing" of the White House, which houses the First Lady’s office.
Moreover, the project is legally stalled as a federal judge ruled in April that construction requires prior approval from Congress to proceed lawfully.
Meanwhile, the U.S. government has threatened to use an "emergency arbitration" measure to control and suspend the budget dispute for 30 days. However, senior officials said on Wednesday that invoking this special law is premature, believing Congress and the White House can still negotiate an agreement.
It is noted that this luxurious ballroom, a source of Trump’s pride, may not be completed during his second and final presidential term ending in 2029.