Trump's White House renovation could cost at least $927 million.

The White House renovation undertaken under the Trump administration could cost at least $927 million.

This cost, according to media reports, includes several projects: the construction of a ballroom in the East Wing, the renovation of Lafayette Square, the creation of a helipad, and the construction of a visitor security center.

The East Wing project was previously estimated to cost $600 million. Half of this amount was reportedly to be covered by the federal budget.

The estimated scope of this work makes this the largest renovation in 80 years. Notably, the administration did not request specific appropriations from Congress for these projects.

Instead, funds were channeled through a White House unit known as the Executive Residence, which is typically responsible for the building's ongoing maintenance. Congress appropriated approximately $2.5 million annually for these purposes, but the administration transferred $875 million to the Executive Residence account.

Of this amount, $500 million came from the budgets of the U.S. Secret Service and the White House Military Office, and $305 million came from private donations. The source of the remaining $70 million is reportedly unknown.

The Secret Service transferred $415 million to the White House account after Congress rejected a bill appropriating $400 million for the construction of the East Wing and the security center.

Administration officials claim these actions are consistent with Congressional intent, as the projects are aimed at upgrading security systems.

On August 7, a federal appeals court ruled that the construction of the ballroom requires congressional approval.

Victoria BAmutova