Build the Ballroom Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Fine, Randy [R-FL-6]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 28, 2026
Bottom line
The "Build the Ballroom Act" seeks to improve presidential security and event hosting capabilities by authorizing the construction of a new, permanent ballroom on the White House grounds, with design and approval solely at the President's discretion.
What it actually does
This bill, titled the "Build the Ballroom Act," authorizes the President to construct a permanent ballroom on the White House grounds. It specifies that the President will have sole approval over the plans, which must account for the needs of the President and the Executive Office, include necessary utilities and furnishings, and involve the removal of any existing structures. The stated purpose is to enhance security by allowing large formal events, currently held off-campus, to take place within the secure White House perimeter.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the bill is a critical security measure, directly addressing the vulnerability of the President and guests when large formal events are hosted off-site. They cite past assassination attempts, including recent fictional ones in the bill's findings, as evidence of the urgent need to consolidate presidential activities within the secure White House perimeter. Furthermore, supporters emphasize the practical benefits of having a dedicated, modern facility for state dinners and other significant gatherings, enhancing the nation's ability to conduct diplomacy and host dignitaries effectively.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that while security is paramount, constructing a new ballroom could be an unnecessary expenditure of taxpayer money, especially if existing facilities could be adapted or if alternative, less costly security enhancements are available. Critics may also raise concerns about the aesthetic impact on the historic White House grounds, potential disruption during construction, and the precedent of granting the President sole approval authority for such a significant structural change without broader congressional or public input.
The bill is exceptionally short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly.
Section 3
Authorization for White House Ballroom Construction
This section grants the President the authority to build a permanent ballroom on the White House grounds. The design must consider the needs of the President and the Executive Office, and the President alone is responsible for approving the plans. The construction must include heating, electricity, and furniture, and any existing structures in the chosen location must be removed. This provision aims to enable the White House to host large events securely on-site, addressing current space limitations and security risks associated with off-campus events.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision is essential for modernizing White House facilities to meet contemporary security demands and diplomatic needs. They contend that the current inability to host large events on-site poses an unacceptable risk to the President and guests, making this construction a necessary investment in national security and the effective functioning of the presidency.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that while security is important, the specific approach of granting the President sole approval authority bypasses important checks and balances, potentially leading to unchecked spending or design choices that may not align with broader public interest or historical preservation standards. They may also question the necessity of a new structure versus renovating existing spaces or using alternative secure venues.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need for enhanced presidential security and functional event space against potential concerns regarding taxpayer cost, historical preservation, and the extent of executive authority in approving significant structural changes to a national landmark.