Kamala Harris Calls Donald Trump’s Ballroom Project 'Deeply Unjust' Amid Crisis

Washington: These days, US President Donald Trump is building a grand ballroom in the White House at a cost of $300 million. Former Vice President Kamala Harris has sharply criticized this project and called it “injustice to the poor.” The Trump administration says that this project is being completed with private funding and has nothing to do with taxpayers.

What exactly is this ballroom project?

The "East Wing" of the White House is being completely demolished to build a new ballroom of approximately 90,000 square feet, which is estimated to cost approximately $300 million.

Why did Harris react sharply?

Former Vice President Harris has called the project “grossly inappropriate” as the government shutdown in the US threatens to cut off food assistance (SNAP benefits) to millions of poor families. She said, “Are you kidding me? This guy wants to create a ballroom for his rich friends while completely turning a blind eye to the fact that babies are going to starve…” Harris is of the opinion that such a luxury project is untimely at a time when the needs of ordinary people are being ignored.

Criticisms and public reaction regarding the project

According to public surveys, opposition to the plan is widespread: 56% of Americans are against the project, while only 28% support it. Big technology companies have donated for the construction of this ballroom, including companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft. Historians and conservation groups have also expressed concern over the demolition of the old East Wing and the lack of transparency in the process.

What is the Trump administration saying?

The administration claims that this ballroom will be “a magnificent structure for the White House for a long time.”  Trump says the current "East Room," which can accommodate only about 200 guests, is not large enough for large diplomatic and cultural events. He has also given a statement that the naming has not been decided yet and taxpayers' money is not being invested in the project. 

What will happen next on this?

Social and food assistance programs in the US are facing a crisis due to the shutdown. At such a time, this luxury investment is politically sensitive. Harris and other opposition leaders have used it to question Trump's priorities and policy on the use of public resources.

At the same time, the project is also highlighting the attitudes of American citizens, political divisions, accountability of officials, and the relationship between private funding and the public interest.