EXPLAINERNews|ConstructionWho are the private donors funding Trump’s White House ballroom?White House releases list of donors funding $300m construction on the site of the demolished East Wing.

Construction Update on White House Ballroom

United States President Donald Trump has initiated the construction of a $300 million ballroom at the former location of the White House's East Wing. This marks the first significant structural modification to the White House complex since 1948.

The project involves demolishing the existing East Wing, previously used for ceremonies and housing the first lady's offices. The new ballroom is designed to be 8,360 square meters (90,000 square feet) and accommodate 999 individuals. Initially estimated at $200 million, the cost has been revised to $300 million.

Construction commenced during a government shutdown without the National Capital Planning Commission's approval, as the agency is currently closed.

The project is financed through private donations from individuals and corporations, including tech companies such as Google and Amazon. A pledge form indicates potential recognition for donors, although specific details remain undisclosed.

Notably, YouTube is contributing $22 million as part of a legal settlement with President Trump regarding a 2021 lawsuit over account suspension.

Amazon: Recently settled a Federal Trade Commission case regarding consumer enrollment in its Prime service. Apple: Currently appealing a federal ruling related to app purchase commissions. Coinbase: Facing a narrowed shareholder lawsuit concerning business risks. Google: Recently involved in an antitrust case regarding online search monopolization. Lockheed Martin: Resolved allegations of overcharging the U.S. government for fighter jet contracts. Microsoft: Led by CEO Satya Nadella, reported a record income of $96.5 million. Lutnick Family: Associated with Howard Lutnick, Trump's commerce secretary. Winklevoss Twins: Settled an SEC lawsuit over a cryptocurrency-lending program.

Altria Group Booz Allen Hamilton Caterpillar Comcast J Pepe and Emilia Fanjul Hard Rock International HP Meta Platforms Micron Technology NextEra Energy Palantir Technologies Ripple Reynolds American T-Mobile Tether America Union Pacific Adelson Family Foundation Stefan E Brodie Betty Wold Johnson Foundation Charles and Marissa Cascarilla Edward and Shari Glazer Harold Hamm Benjamin Leon Jr Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Foundation Stephen A Schwarzman Konstantin Sokolov Kelly Loeffler and Jeff Sprecher Paolo Tiramani

Constitutional lawyer Bruce Fein has raised concerns regarding the legality of private funding under the Anti-Deficiency Act, which prohibits the executive branch from accepting private contributions for official functions without congressional approval. The act is intended to safeguard congressional fiscal authority.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.