GOP pushes $400M federal funding for Trump White House ballroom amid security concerns

Senate Republicans led by Graham, Britt, and Schmitt propose a $400 million federal appropriation to build a White House ballroom, arguing it would improve security after a shooting disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Rand Paul says he’ll move a measure forward that avoids new taxpayer costs, while other GOP lawmakers (and even Democrat John Fetterman) signal support. Trump had previously claimed private funding, but the bills push for public funding, with some suggesting cost offsets like customs fees; the project has faced legal and funding hurdles, including a prior court block for lacking congressional authorization and ongoing DHS funding debates in Congress.