Bill grows for Trump's White House projects: Costs to exceed $900 million

It has been reported that the resources allocated by the administration of US President Donald Trump for construction projects underway and planned at the White House complex are significantly higher than previously announced estimates.

According to confidential contracts and planning documents reviewed by The Washington Post, the total cost of "modernization projects" at the White House will reach at least $927 million. The report stated that a significant portion of this amount will be covered by taxpayers.

The documents indicate that instead of requesting funds directly from Congress, the administration combined resources provided by various public agencies and private donors; these funds were then transferred to a little-known account normally used for routine maintenance of the presidential residence.

SCOPE OF PROJECTS EXPANDED

At the center of the plans is the gold-leafed East Wing ballroom that Trump wants built on the White House grounds. However, the documents include not only this ballroom but also renovations around Lafayette Square, a helipad, a new visitor security screening center, and other previously mentioned works.

The Washington Post had previously reported that the cost of the East Wing construction alone was estimated at approximately $600 million, with half of that to be covered by public funds. The new documents reveal that the total construction bill for the complex is far higher than that figure.

According to the report, the White House did not respond to questions regarding the total cost and all sources of funding. However, it argued that the expenditures were made in a manner "consistent" with the purposes originally set by Congress.

White House spokesperson Davis Ingle defended the projects, saying that Trump is implementing long-overdue renovations to beautify the "People's House" as the US prepares for the 250th anniversary of its independence.

On the other hand, the ballroom project in the East Wing has also sparked legal debate. A federal appeals court ruled that Congressional approval is required for this construction to proceed. Trump announced that he would appeal the decision, which covers only the ballroom.

In the opinion accompanying the ruling, judges Patricia A. Millett and Bradley N. Garcia stated, "The exclusive authority to regulate the construction and demolition of White House structures belongs to Congress." This process is seen as a new stage that could carry the debate over the limits of presidential authority on the White House grounds to the Supreme Court.

News Source: 12punto