At a Glance
- Trump’s $400M ballroom plan, backed by longtime White House chief usher Gary Walters, highlights ongoing space limits and historic expansion efforts.
- Long-time chief usher Gary Walters confirms presidents have always wanted more space.
- Demolition of the East Wing and tent issues highlight ongoing space challenges.
- Why it matters: It shows how space limits affect presidential events and how past leaders approached similar problems.
President Donald Trump’s plan to build a new ballroom at the White House has drawn the support of Gary Walters, the longest-serving chief usher in the residence. Walters’ decades of experience give weight to Trump’s claim that space has always been a concern for presidents. The proposal, which has evolved from a 90,000-sq-ft, $200M project to a 90,000-sq-ft, $400M venture, now sits on the site of the demolished East Wing.
Space Constraints in the White House
The State Dining Room can seat about 130 people, while the East Room holds roughly 300 chairs. Trump has repeatedly said both rooms are too small for his events. He has also complained about the use of large tents on the south grounds, which have caused soil damage when it rains.
- The State Dining Room holds ~130 guests.
- The East Room holds ~300 guests.
- Trump’s proposed ballroom would accommodate 999 guests.
Historical Precedent for Expansion
Walters says presidents from Reagan to Bush have always talked about enlarging the residence. He points to projects like the West Wing’s 1902 construction, the third-floor addition, and the East Wing’s 1940s build to provide space for the first lady.
| Room | Capacity | Status |
|---|---|---|
| State Dining Room | 130 | Current |
| East Room | 300 | Current |
| Proposed Ballroom | 999 | Planned |
Walters’ Career and Personal Touch
**Gary Walters stated:
> “All the presidents that I had an opportunity to serve always talked about some possibility of an enlarged area.”
Gary Walters added:
> “So there’s always been construction going on around the White House.”
Gary Walters explained:
> “When it rained, the water flows downhill and the grass became soggy, no matter what we tried to do.”
Gary Walters noted:
> “We dug culverts around the outside of the tent to try and get the water.”
Gary Walters recalled:
> “I met my wife at the White House and she worked in the East Wing, so that was a joy for me.”
Gary Walters reflected:
> “This injury also changed the course of my career.”
Gary Walters wrote in his memoir White House Memories: 1970-2007: Recollections of the Longest-Serving Chief Usher.
Gary Walters added:
> “I gained an ‘in-depth knowledge of the ways and security systems of the White House that would ultimately greatly benefit me in my future role in the Usher’s Office.'”
Gary Walters said:
> “Without hesitation I say it is getting to know and interact directly with the president, first lady, and other members of their family.”
Key Takeaways
- Trump’s ballroom plan has escalated from $200M to $400M and will seat 999 guests.
- Long-time chief usher Walters confirms presidents have always sought more space.
- Demolition of the East Wing and tent problems illustrate ongoing space challenges.
The debate over space at the White House continues as presidents balance tradition with the need for larger venues.
