Kevin O’Leary Supports White House Ballroom Proposal
Investor and “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary shared his vision for an “American Dream” following a recent shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. He expressed his backing for President Donald Trump’s initiative to create a ballroom at the White House, suggesting it would benefit future administrations across party lines.
“I don’t see the ballroom as a partisan matter. Someday a Democratic president will use it, so it makes sense to approach this from a bipartisan perspective,” O’Leary stated.
This discussion arises as Congressional Republicans push for approval of the Washington Hilton ballroom, where a mass shooting occurred during a significant event attended by journalists and government officials. Proponents believe this new space would provide a safer environment for future gatherings.
O’Leary also emphasized that this venture could enhance America’s global image. Despite opposition from numerous Democrats, he argued it would uplift “the American brand” internationally.
Currently, Republicans are focusing on raising $400 million for Trump’s intended banquet, while some Democrats seem willing to have a “debate” on the subject.
O’Leary stated, “I want a ballroom because I believe in glitz and atmosphere and the American brand.” He noted that a nation’s image encompasses more than just its economic output. “People tend to think it’s all about technology or energy exports. That’s not entirely true. This is the American dream, and we want to showcase that,” he remarked, asserting that the ballroom would bring this vision to reality.
He also clarified that the project wouldn’t require taxpayer funding, as President Trump suggested it would be financed through private donations.
Contrary to this, a new bill proposed by Senators Lindsey Graham, Katie Britt, and Eric Schmidt suggests financing the ballroom project via tariffs on imported goods.
Previously, construction on the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom, with a cost of $400 million, was halted due to a lawsuit and a court-ordered injunction. A federal court had ruled that construction was not permissible without legislative approval, although an appeal allowed for limited underground work to proceed.
In light of the recent shooting, O’Leary remarked, “It was a very surreal moment.” Thankfully, no one was injured, but he anticipates thorough investigations ahead.
The accused, identified as Cole Allen from Torrance, California, faces charges of attempting to assassinate the President, among others.
During a press conference, President Trump reiterated the urgent need for a banquet hall, highlighting that both the Secret Service and military have expressed this need for over a century, particularly emphasizing that contemporary security requirements are unprecedented.
O’Leary questioned the viability of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in the coming years, as securing events of that magnitude can be problematic. “Can you really ensure the safety of 2,600 attendees? It’s a legitimate concern,” he noted.
