Trump says military building ‘massive complex’ beneath new White House ballroom

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said Sunday that the U.S. military is constructing a “massive complex” beneath the new White House ballroom that’s being built on the former East Wing site.

Trump said the ballroom will serve as a protective cover for the secure facility below and added that its windows will be made of thick, bullet‑resistant glass. He described the project as ahead of schedule and designed to guard against threats, including drones.

“It’s also capable of handling the inauguration,” Trump said. “We have all bulletproof glass. We have drone-proof roofs, ceilings, everything’s drone proof and bulletproof. And unfortunately, we’re living in an age where that’s a good thing.”

READ MORE: White House proposes building underground security screening center for tours, events

During a roughly 20‑minute conversation aboard Air Force One, Trump showed new renderings of the ballroom, explaining that the structure mirrors the White House in height, style and materials, including Corinthian columns. 

He also noted exterior changes to the original design including removing the stairs on the south side and adding a new porch that will overlook major monuments.

Rendering of the new White House ballroom shared by President Donald Trump on Truth Social on March 5, 2026. (Donald J. Trump / @realDonaldTrump)

Trump ballroom project nears approval vote

President Donald Trump’s proposal to build a $400 million, 22,000-square-foot ballroom at the White House is moving closer to approval as the National Capital Planning Commission hears public feedback. 

The 90,000‑square‑foot ballroom would be nearly twice the size of the White House and is designed to hold about 1,000 people. Trump has said the project will cost roughly $400 million and will be funded entirely through private donations.

RELATED: White House ballroom proposal approved by panel of Trump appointees

“It pays total homage to the White House, which is, I think, very important,” he said.

Trump also addressed the conflict with Iran, saying he believes a deal is possible but cautioned that an agreement is not guaranteed. On Monday, he warned that Iran’s energy infrastructure and other critical facilities could face widespread destruction if a settlement to end the war is not reached “shortly.”

READ MORE: Iran war latest: Trump says US in discussions with a new regime, suggest taking Kharg Island

Rendering of the new White House ballroom shared by President Donald Trump on Truth Social on March 5, 2026. (Donald J. Trump / @realDonaldTrump)