The Daily Signal Victor Davis Hanson: Trump’s Ballroom Is the Least Damning Thing to Happen to the White House
Oct 27, 2025
The controversy over Trump's plan for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom ignites debate amid Democratic criticism of luxury spending during a government shutdown. Victor Davis Hanson highlights the historical context of White House remodels, pointing out past presidential renovations that faced little scrutiny. He emphasizes the ballroom is funded by private donations, contrasting it with costly taxpayer-funded projects. Citing past White House scandals, Hanson argues that the outrage over the ballroom is exaggerated and underscores its potential necessity for official functions.
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Privately Funded Ballroom Proposal
- Victor Davis Hanson argues Trump proposed a 90,000 sq ft privately funded ballroom to solve a long-standing White House entertaining gap.
- He emphasizes transparency with donor lists and involvement from big tech contributors.
Criticism Vs. Government Shutdown
- Hanson highlights leftwing criticism linking Trump's ballroom to government shutdown hardships as hypocritical.
- He counters that opening the government would address those poverty concerns directly.
History Of White House Remodels
- Hanson recounts past White House renovations from FDR's pool to Truman's gutting to show remodels are common.
- He uses these examples to normalize the idea of further changes under any administration.