President Donald Trump used his first Cabinet meeting since the outbreak of hostilities with Iran to disclose what he called a closely held national project, accusing disloyal figures of exposing it to the public.
Speaking from the Cabinet Room on Thursday, March 26, Trump turned his attention to ongoing work at the White House, describing a major new ballroom under construction in the East Wing. He said the addition would be exceptionally beautiful and beneficial for the city and the nation.
Trump noted that the new ballroom under construction in the East Wing was to remain secret, but some individuals leaked it to the public.
“This ballroom is going to be something that’s so beautiful for the city,” Trump told his Cabinet secretaries. “The military wanted it more than anybody. It was supposed to be secret, but it became unsecret because of people who are really unpatriotic, saying things.”
The president went on to mention plans for a triumphal arch that he said would act as an incredible landmark.
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He also referenced changes at what had been known as the Kennedy Center, noting with satisfaction that its board had adjusted the name to reflect cooperation between Republicans and Democrats.
The East Wing ballroom project has been in development since last year. Plans call for a large addition, estimated at around $400 million, partly supported by private donors.
The existing East Wing structure was demolished late in 2025 to make way for the new space, which architects have designed to accommodate hundreds more guests than the current White House rooms can accommodate for major events.
Trump-appointed members of the Commission of Fine Arts approved the designs earlier this year after some adjustments.
The project still faces reviews from other federal bodies and has drawn criticism from preservationists and opponents who argue it disturbs the historic symmetry of the White House grounds.
At the Cabinet session, which took place against the backdrop of the continuing conflict with Iran and reports of American casualties, Trump described the ballroom as something the armed forces had strongly supported.
He did not provide further details on how the military had expressed that preference or why the project required secrecy in the first place.
The Trump admin believes the ballroom and related improvements are intended to leave a lasting legacy for future generations, much like past presidents have enhanced the executive mansion.
The triumphal arch, tied to upcoming national anniversary celebrations, is intended to honor American achievements, according to supporters.
Trump also spoke positively about the renaming of the Kennedy Center. Late last year, the institution’s board, which the president had restructured, voted to add his name alongside John F. Kennedy’s.
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The move prompted some artists to cancel appearances, but administration officials described it as a bipartisan gesture that modernizes the venue while preserving its mission.
During the meeting, Trump appeared animated as he discussed the projects, at one point returning to the idea that leaks had undermined what should have remained confidential planning.
Trump Speaks About Ballroom Amid Iran War
The disclosure comes as the administration continues to manage the Iran conflict. Trump has signaled that negotiations could lead to a deal, while his defense team has stressed the need for continued military pressure.
White House officials also said the ballroom will serve important state functions and public events, providing a grand setting that fits America’s stature.
They rejected suggestions that the project distracts from more important issues, insisting that strong leadership means advancing multiple priorities simultaneously.
The ballroom construction continues under tight security, with private funding helping to move the work forward.
The president has made clear that he views these developments as essential to his agenda, and he has put the public on notice that those who disclose sensitive plans do so at the risk of being labeled disloyal to the country.
