- President Donald Trump 's makeover of the White House and its grounds could cost up to $927 million, significantly higher than the previously estimated $600 million, according to a report from The Washington Post
- According to public budget records cited by the Post , the administration is funding the projects by diverting $875 million into the Executive Residence account, drawing from private donors, the Secret Service, and the White House Military Office.
- Planned updates include building a new ballroom in place of the demolished East Wing, making improvements to Lafayette Square, and adding a helipad and visitor screening center.
- A White House spokesperson defended the renovations as necessary security and aesthetic upgrades, citing the need for drone-proof structures for large events.
- The D.C. Court of Appeals recently ordered a halt to above-ground construction, ruling that the administration must secure congressional approval for the project.
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