Jenna Bush Hager Criticizes Trump’s White House Ballroom Expansion Plan
Jenna Bush Hager recently expressed criticism of President Donald Trump’s ambitious plan to expand the White House with a ballroom. This remark was made on the program “TODAY With Jenna & Sheinelle,” aired on January 28, 2026.
Details of the Ballroom Expansion Plan
President Trump announced plans for a new State Ballroom, intended to be the largest and most luxurious venue at the White House. This 90,000-square-foot expansion in the East Wing was first introduced publicly in July 2025. The demolition of the existing East Wing began last October.
Trump’s Vision for the Expansion
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump detailed the project’s funding, stating it relies on contributions from “Great American Patriots” rather than taxpayer dollars. He emphasized that this ballroom is a long-standing necessity, citing over 150 years of previous administrations seeking to establish such a space.
Citing Concerns Over the Ballrooms’ Purpose
Trump criticized the past reliance on temporary tents for significant state events, labeling them as unsafe and inadequate. His intent is to create a secure venue for high-profile occasions such as state dinners and future inaugurations.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Remarks on the Expansion
During her show, Jenna Bush Hager lightly mocked Trump’s proposal while interviewing socialite Paris Hilton. Hager suggested that the ambitious expansion could serve as a potential project for Hilton, should she pursue a career in politics.
Legal Challenges Faced by the Project
However, the ballroom’s construction is not without controversy. The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in December 2025, aiming to halt the project. Trump responded defiantly, dismissing the lawsuit as a product of “radical left” opposition.
Summary of Key Points
- Jenna Bush Hager criticized Trump’s ballroom plan on “TODAY With Jenna & Sheinelle.”
- Trump’s ballroom will cover 90,000 square feet in the East Wing.
- Construction began after the East Wing was demolished in October 2025.
- The project is funded through private donations, not taxpayer money.
- A lawsuit was filed to stop the expansion, led by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The heated discussions surrounding the White House ballroom expansion continue to draw public interest. As this project progresses, it could reshape the landscape of presidential events for years to come.
