On Friday morning, President Donald Trump embarked on a shopping trip in Florida to buy marble and onyx for the White House ballroom, with plans to cover the cost himself.
He visited Ark Stone & Tile in Lake Worth before heading to Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, as reported by the White House Press Office.
A White House official mentioned, “President Trump is personally purchasing marble and onyx for the White House ballroom.”
Details about what was bought and the total expenses at Ark Stone & Tile remain unclear, according to an afternoon report.
Construction of the banquet hall began in September. The White House estimated the completed hall would cover 90,000 square feet, with a projected cost of around $200 million as of July. However, by mid-December, plans had shifted, and Trump stated he anticipated raising about $400 million through donations during a White House gala, while still hoping to keep construction within budget.
While discussing the numbers, President Trump highlighted his administration’s success in a legal battle to continue construction.
He remarked, “We’re donating about $400 million worth of buildings. I think we can do it cheaper, but it’s $400 million. I wish I could do it cheaper. I’ll do it cheaper. If I go $3 over budget, the media will claim it’s more expensive!” He continued, insisting they would complete the project on time and within the budget.
“They sought a restraining order to prevent us from creating a beautiful ballroom. I asked, ‘Who would want to stop that?’ We’re putting in $400 million. It’s going to be stunning, suitable for inaugurations,” Trump elaborated.
He also mentioned that the banquet hall would feature thick glass windows, claiming that “only howitzers could break in.”
Trump expressed confidence, saying, “I think it will be the greatest banquet hall anywhere in the world.”
Like many previous presidents, Trump has made various renovations to the White House, including replacing the lawn in the rose garden with a patio, citing concerns for women attending events in heels.
In June, he also added two flagpoles, each about 100 feet tall, on the north and south lawns.
