Karoline Leavitt faces barrage of questions over Trump's White House ballroom construction and cost

White House Ballroom Funding

• 💡 The White House ballroom project cost estimate has reportedly risen to $300 million.
• 💰 Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the project is privately funded by the President and "generous patriots," with no taxpayer money involved.
• ✅ The President has committed his own resources and will release his specific dollar figure contribution.

Transparency and Project Details

• 💬 Leavitt emphasized the President's "incredibly transparent" approach to the project, having shown models and renderings.
• 🚀 She explained that changes occur in any construction project as plans evolve.
• 🖼️ Printed images of past White House construction were shown to reporters to illustrate historical precedent.

Oversight and Demolition

• ⚖️ Questions arose regarding oversight for demolition of the East Wing structure.
• 📌 Leavitt clarified that a long-standing legal opinion from the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) states that submission is not required for demolition (Phase One), only for "vertical construction."
• 🏛️ This legal opinion is being followed by the White House.

Historical Context of White House Modifications

• 📜 Leavitt cited historical examples of presidents making significant changes to the White House complex.
• 🏗️ Past projects included the construction of the West Wing (1902), West Terrace (1902), East Terrace, and West Wing expansion (1934).
• 🏊 The current briefing room was once a swimming pool, and President Truman undertook major construction, demonstrating a history of extensive modifications.

East Wing Bunker and Security

• 🛡️ Costs for security enhancements, such as upgrading the East Wing bunker, are handled and maintained by the United States Secret Service.
• ❌ These security-related costs are separate from the privately funded ballroom construction.