President Donald Trump revealed Monday that his new White House ballroom will come equipped with what he calls a "drone-free roof," positioning the structure as both a security fortress and an event space for future inaugurations. The project, built on the site where the East Wing once stood, is being funded entirely by private donors.
A High-Security Venue Funded By Corporate Allies
Speaking at a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump described the ballroom's protective features in detail.
"It's got all bulletproof glass, it's got all drone — they call it drone-free roof, so drones won't touch it. It's a big, beautiful, safe building," he said, according to The Hill.
The addition spans 90,000 square feet, making it larger than the main White House residence itself. Its estimated cost has now reached $400 million. According to the White House, corporations and wealthy supporters are footing the bill, with donor disclosures revealing backing from major players in tech, defense and cryptocurrency sectors.
Historic Demolition Triggers Legal Fights
Trump ordered the demolition of the 1902 East Wing this fall to make room for the new ballroom, a move that immediately drew lawsuits from historic preservation organizations. Critics accuse the administration of bypassing mandatory reviews by federal planning and design commissions.
A federal judge declined to stop the work this month but noted that above-ground construction still needs additional approval, Reuters reported. The National Capital Planning Commission has scheduled an initial hearing for January.
Drone Security And Political Fallout
Trump's focus on drone protection reflects growing concerns in Washington about unmanned aircraft threats. A 2015 incident saw a drone crash on White House grounds, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to strengthen regulations and require remote identification for most drones, according to the agency and Secret Service.
Democrats have jumped on the ballroom as evidence of warped priorities. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) have blasted Trump for channeling millions into a luxury venue while American families face rising living costs.