Why Lawmakers Are Pressing The Park Service On Trump Ballroom Funding

Democratic lawmakers are renewing pressure on the National Park Service over its role in President Donald Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom project, according to a letter obtained by CBS News.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Robert Garcia are seeking details on how donations raised by a nonprofit were routed through the Park Service to a White House office overseeing construction. They argue the process raises potential ethics and transparency concerns.

“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 lawmakers say earlier requests for information were largely ignored. With Democrats lacking subpoena power, the letter amounts to a formal but nonbinding oversight request.

A federal judge is expected to rule soon on whether construction can proceed amid a lawsuit alleging approval violations. Two federal review boards are also set to weigh in on the project later this month.

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