President Trump has released footage on his Truth Social platform showing the ongoing construction of a new White House ballroom. This project, which Trump also describes as a military complex, is located on what used to be the East Wing of the building.
The construction represents a significant achievement for Trump, who has been personally invested in the project. Despite legal challenges attempting to halt the work, construction is moving forward. The video reveals substantial progress, with the building’s outline nearly complete and several floors partially built. Two large cranes are visible, standing over the site, which is next to the Treasury Building.
The Great Ballroom and Military Complex being built at the White House. When completed, it will be the finest of its kind, anywhere in the World! President DONALD J. TRUMP.
Trump shared this message alongside the video. The clip was also posted on X by MAGA Voice, a Trump-supporting account with 1.5 million followers.
Ballroom History
Trump first announced plans for a new White House ballroom in May 2025 during an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press. He mentioned considering several designs. The project was officially introduced in July 2025 by then Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. It was declared that the new facility would span approximately 90,000 square feet, seat 650 people, and cost about $200 million, funded by Trump and other donors.
By October, three months later, the old East Wing, which housed the First Lady’s offices since 1902, was demolished. While Trump initially claimed the ballroom would not affect the existing White House structure, plans were revised after discussions with architects and contractors.
In April 2026, the National Capital Planning Commission, which included Trump allies, approved the proposal in an 8-1 vote.
Legal Complications
The project faced opposition from groups like the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In March 2026, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon issued an injunction to pause construction, except for security-related activities. The following month, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals allowed construction to resume, placing the injunction on hold.
In August 2026, the D.C. Circuit upheld Leon’s original ruling, stating that congressional approval was necessary. However, the Supreme Court later issued an injunction permitting work to continue. Trump expressed gratitude for the Supreme Court’s decision, emphasizing the project’s importance for national security and its inclusion of bomb shelters and top-secret military facilities.
Rising Costs
The project’s cost has significantly risen from the initial $200 million estimate. In March 2026, Trump estimated the cost at $400 million. By June, The Washington Post reported an internal estimate from Clark Construction, suggesting the final cost could reach $600 million.
Triumphal Arch
Trump is also pursuing the construction of a 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C. The project received approval from the National Capital Planning Commission in July. In September, Trump stated that plans for the arch were revised at the military’s request, adding a military function with space for drones, snipers, and ammunition storage.