Donald Trump briefly shifted focus from official business during a White House meeting, drawing attention to a personal project underway on the grounds. The moment unfolded as the president paused proceedings to highlight the ballroom’s progress, underscoring his interest in showcasing the space.
Donald Trump praises ballroom after interrupting a meeting
Donald Trump interrupted a meeting with oil and gas executives at the White House on Friday, 9 January 2026, to inspect progress on a newly constructed ballroom. Midway through his remarks, the president rose from his seat and halted the discussion. He said, “Wait a moment, I need to see my beautiful hall,” before walking toward the door and looking out at the construction area (via The Independent).
As the room fell silent, Trump paused at the doorway and commented on the view. He said, “Wow! What a view! This is the door to the hall,” while remaining away from his seat for several seconds. The executives, numbering nearly two dozen, stayed seated as he observed the site. The moment was recorded on video and later circulated on social media.
Trump had been hosting senior executives from companies including Chevron, Exxon, Shell, ConocoPhillips and Halliburton. The meeting also included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Trump earlier told the group, “Today, I’m delighted to welcome almost two dozen of the biggest and most respected oil and gas executives in the world to the White House.”
During the interruption, Trump referenced the size limitations of existing White House rooms. He said, “If we had a ballroom, we’d have over a thousand people.” As he stood up, he added, “I gotta look at this myself,” before moving to inspect the site.
Trump described the timing as unexpected, saying, “Unusual time to look, but I figured we might as well.” The White House has said the ballroom project began in October 2025 and is privately funded. Officials reprtedly stated the construction is ahead of schedule and will be completed before the end of Trump’s term in 2029.
