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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Nick Lester

Donald Trump says King’s state visit shows need for White House ballroom

President Donald Trump speaks about the new ballroom construction before a Medal of Honor ceremony in the East Room of the White House, Monday, March 2, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) - (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

US president Donald Trump has invoked the King's forthcoming state visit to underscore the necessity of a contentious £301 million White House ballroom. Mr Trump argued the development was essential for entertaining a large number of foreign dignitaries and world leaders.

The 90,000-square-foot project, which saw the East Wing torn down last October, has already been the subject of a legal challenge seeking to halt its construction. The White House is situated on federal parkland.

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