Donald Trump and Melania Trump appear to be at odds over a major change unfolding at the White House. As work continues on a high-profile addition to the historic residence, the president addressed the project publicly. He also shared how the ongoing decision has been received at home.
Melania Trump doesn’t like Ballroom construction sounds
According to PEOPLE, President Donald Trump spoke during a March 2 Medal of Honor ceremony. He said First Lady Melania Trump is tired of construction noise as workers build a new East Wing ballroom. He stated that crews have been working from 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. “When you hear all that hammering out there, you know why the first lady is not thrilled, exactly,” he said. He added that Melania asked, “Will the pile drivers ever stop?”
The project follows the October demolition of the original East Wing and marks the largest White House construction in over 60 years. Referring to the site, he said, “When that comes down right now you see a very very deep hole, but in about a year and half you’re gonna see a very very beautiful building.” The renovation will span 90,000 square feet with a ballroom, movie theater, and office space for the first lady.
Despite Melania Trump’s reaction, the president said he associates construction sounds with financial gain. “You know what? To me that’s a beautiful sound,” he said. “She doesn’t like it, I love it.” He continued, “When I hear that sound, that beautiful sound behind me, it means money, so I like it, but my wife isn’t thrilled.”
Trump said the ballroom will cost $400 million, stating in December, “We’re donating a $400 million ballroom. Myself and donors are giving them, free of charge, for nothing,” and called it the “most beautiful ballroom anywhere in the world.”
On Feb. 26, a federal judge denied a preservationist group’s request to pause construction for independent reviews and congressional approval. The judge ruled there was not sufficient cause to halt the project.
