President Donald Trump’s plan to build a new White House ballroom moved closer to approval after a fast-tracked vote by the Commission of Fine Arts, according to CNN.
In an unusual step, the commission unanimously approved both the concept and final design for the East Wing renovation in a single vote. The decision accelerated a process that typically unfolds in multiple stages.
“Will be the Greatest Ballroom ever built, now rising at the site of the White House — Fully paid for by American Patriot Donors. ZERO cost to our United States Taxpayers!” - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/DXxsO1fOpx
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 18, 2026
The chair acknowledged receiving more than 2,000 public comments, with over 99 percent opposing the project, citing concerns about scale, demolition, and transparency.
The vote followed the swearing-in of two new members, including Trump aide Chamberlain Harris, making it the first meeting with a panel composed entirely of Trump appointees. Project architect Shalom Baranes presented detailed models of the design.
The renovation must still receive approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, which is expected to review the plan on March 5.
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