Trump donates paycheck to White House Historical Association, renovation efforts amid ballroom construction plans

President Donald Trump is moving forward with plans to add a massive 90,000-square-foot ballroom to the White House, a project he says will be paid for entirely by himself and private donors, in a post where the president also touted that he has donated his paycheck to the White House Historical Association. The initiative is part of a broader effort by Trump to renovate and expand the historic presidential residence without using taxpayer dollars.

In a post to Truth Social, Trump wrote: "I am proud to be the only President (with the possible exception of the Late, Great George Washington) to donate my Salary. My first 'Paycheck' went to the White House Historical Association, as we make much needed renovations to the beautiful 'People’s House.' Great improvements and beautification is taking place at the White House, at levels not seen since its original creation. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"

The ballroom project is scheduled to break ground in September and will be constructed adjacent to the East Wing. The administration has confirmed that the goal is to complete the new space before Trump’s term ends in January 2029. The venue is expected to host state dinners, diplomatic receptions, and other large-scale events.

“I always said I was going to do something about the ballroom because they should have one,” Trump told reporters Thursday. “So we'll be leaving it, it will be a great legacy project. And, I think it will be special.”

He emphasized that the expansion will not come at the public’s expense. When asked directly whether any federal dollars would be used, The Hill reports that he responded: “No government dollars, no.”

Trump, who famously built a real estate empire before entering politics, has frequently commented on what he sees as logistical shortcomings in the White House’s current layout. He pointed to problems with tented outdoor events as a motivation for the new facility.

“When it rains it’s a disaster, and the tent’s 100 yards, that’s more than a football field away from the main entrance,” he said. “And people are shlopping down to the tent; it’s not a pretty sight. The women with their lovely evening gowns, their hair all done, and they’re a mess by the time they get [there].”

He also noted that presidents have discussed the idea of a White House ballroom for more than a century. “They’ve wanted a ballroom at the White House for more than 150 years. There’s never been a president that was good at ballrooms. I’m really good,” Trump said.

In addition to the ballroom, the administration is making other changes to the White House grounds. The Rose Garden is being paved to accommodate easier foot traffic for guests attending outdoor events, although the rose bushes will be preserved. Trump has also reportedly added gold accents to the Oval Office.

The upgrades are being described by the White House as part of a long-term beautification effort aimed at both functionality and legacy.