Sen. Jacky Rosen criticized the White House’s proposed $1 billion ballroom project in the East Wing, calling the plan excessive at a time when many Americans are struggling with everyday costs.
Rosen, a Nevada Democrat, made the comments during an interview with CBS News while discussing the administration’s request to fund a new ballroom connected to the White House.
She argued that spending $1 billion on a ballroom sends the wrong message to working families dealing with high prices for gas, groceries and rent.
“$1 billion for a ballroom while people can’t put gas in their car, buy groceries or pay their rent is ridiculous,” Rosen said.
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The proposal has become a political flashpoint in Washington as Democrats criticize the project as wasteful and unnecessary, while supporters argue the White House needs upgraded event space and stronger infrastructure for large official gatherings.
Rosen also accused President Donald Trump of damaging history in the East Wing and ignoring normal rules surrounding White House changes.
Her remarks come as lawmakers continue debating spending priorities, government funding and whether major renovation projects should move forward during a period of economic pressure.
Critics of the project say the administration should focus on lowering costs for families rather than pushing expensive construction plans at the White House.
Supporters may argue that security, event space and official government functions require long-term investment, especially for a facility used to host foreign leaders, state dinners and national events.
The controversy has also renewed broader debate over Trump’s approach to the presidency and his willingness to pursue major changes to official government spaces.
For Democrats, the ballroom proposal offers another opportunity to accuse the administration of being out of touch with ordinary Americans.
For Republicans, the dispute could become another partisan fight over federal spending, tradition and White House modernization.
The proposal is expected to remain under scrutiny as Congress reviews funding decisions and lawmakers continue questioning whether the project should receive taxpayer support.
Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) responds to the White House's proposal to fund a ballroom in the East Wing: “$1 billion for a ballroom — billionaires are going to eat on gold plates when people can’t even put gas in their car or buy their groceries or pay their rent, is ridiculous.”
She… pic.twitter.com/3q5rBSky0k
— CBS News (@CBSNews) May 20, 2026
