Senate Democrats have begun an investigation into the funding and approval process for a new ballroom being constructed at the White House, replacing the demolished East Wing. The project, which is privately financed, has raised concerns among lawmakers about potential pay-to-play corruption and lack of transparency.
The inquiry is led by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Committee; Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee; and Senator Gary Peters (D-M.I.), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee. The senators are seeking information on President Trump’s solicitation and acceptance of private donations for the $300 million construction effort.
“By substituting transparent, appropriated federal funds with opaque private donations, you permit wealthy special interests to buy access to the President and influence over official decisions,” wrote the Ranking Members. “Of the approximately $200 million already collected, only $60 million can be tied to specific donors. The public has a right to know exactly who is funding the destruction of a protected historic structure, how much they are contributing, and what, if anything, they have been promised in return.”
The list of reported donors includes major corporations such as Lockheed Martin, Google, Booz Allen Hamilton, Meta, Palantir, Caterpillar, as well as individuals like Stephen Schwarzman of Blackstone Group and Harold Hamm from Continental Resources.
Lawmakers argue that this method of financing bypasses established legal procedures for federal building projects. They note that any alteration or construction on public buildings must involve oversight from agencies such as the General Services Administration (GSA), require approval from relevant Senate committees—including the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee—and involve reviews by bodies like the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and participation from the National Park Service.
“Notably, even your first Administration worked closely with GSA on the $3.4 million repair of the South Portico steps of the White House in 2017. To date, neither you nor GSA has contacted Congress about the proposed plans for the ballroom. The private donations for the ballroom do not negate your obligation to work with Congress and executive branch agencies to follow the law,” concluded the Senators.
The senators’ letter also references President Trump’s previous assurances that new construction would not affect existing White House structures: “It won’t interfere with the current building. It’ll be near it but not touching it and pay total respect to the existing building, which I’m the biggest fan of.” Despite this statement made in July 2025, demolition work began in October 2025 on what had been a historically significant part of the White House complex.
The lawmakers have requested detailed documentation related to all aspects of planning, donor communications, regulatory compliance efforts—including environmental assessments—and justifications for proceeding without traditional oversight or consultation processes. They set a deadline of November 13, 2025 for responses.
