People point out disturbing issue as Trump administration announces plans to build $200,000,000 ‘state ballroom’

The U.S. government under Donald Trump has announced plans to build a brand-new, luxurious ballroom right next to the East Wing of the White House. This grand hall, expected to cost about $200 million, has sparked strong reactions across the country.

According to the announcement made on July 31, the ballroom will be called the White House State Ballroom and will be around 90,000 square feet in size. It’s designed to seat up to 650 guests—more than three times the current capacity of the White House’s East Room. Supporters of the project say it’s a much-needed upgrade for hosting large events.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt proudly shared the news with reporters, calling the ballroom “exquisite” and beautifully designed. She emphasized its size and importance, saying it will improve the White House’s ability to host major gatherings and state functions.

The Trump team claims that Trump himself, along with a group of wealthy supporters they refer to as “patriots,” will pay for the construction. However, the U.S. Secret Service will handle all the extra security updates the building will require.

But many Americans are upset—and for good reason. While Trump and his wealthy friends are focused on building a massive party hall, millions of everyday people across the country are struggling with real-life problems, like affording food and getting medical care. This is especially painful news following Trump’s recently passed “Big, Beautiful Bill,” which is expected to cut funding for public health and food programs.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, changes to Medicaid could leave as many as 12 million people without health insurance. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly called food stamps, will also face cuts. That means less help for families who depend on it just to eat.

For many, the timing of this lavish construction project couldn’t be worse. Critics say it shows a clear disconnect between the government’s priorities and the needs of everyday Americans. Kendall Witmer, a Democratic Party spokesperson, sharply criticized the move, saying Trump is choosing to entertain billionaires instead of helping working families.

She accused him of taking money and resources from middle- and lower-income people and giving more power and luxury to the ultra-rich. She also blamed him for causing inflation and making everyday life more expensive for regular people.

Even California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office joined in the criticism. They shared a photo of Press Secretary Leavitt showing off a picture of the ballroom design and compared her to Effie Trinket, a fictional character from The Hunger Games known for celebrating luxury while others suffer. Their sarcastic tweet said, “May the odds be ever in your favor,” mocking the idea of building something so extravagant while people struggle to afford basic groceries.

On social media, others didn’t hold back. One person pointed out how cruel it seems that Trump is cutting Medicaid while spending hundreds of millions on a place to throw fancy parties. Another called the plan a “disgrace,” saying it’s unfair for the government to splurge on a ballroom while cutting Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and food assistance programs that help millions of Americans survive.

The White House has been contacted for comment regarding the backlash, but no official response has been given yet.