Politics Weekly America As Americans face going hungry, Trump builds a ballroom
23 snips
Nov 7, 2025 
David Smith, Washington bureau chief for The Guardian, delves into the repercussions of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. He discusses the stark contrast between Trump’s lavish plans for a new ballroom and the struggles of 42 million Americans facing delayed food aid. With the president focused on ostentatious renovations, Smith highlights the ethical concerns surrounding donor funding, the human cost of the shutdown, and the chilling political ramifications as federal workers face uncertainty.
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Reporter’s Walk Through A Gilded White House
- David Smith recounts walking through newly decorated areas with portraits, gold frames, paved Rose Garden slabs and Elvis music playing.
- He uses these details to illustrate how Trump's personal tastes are being imported into official White House spaces.
East Wing Demolition Is Irreversible
- Trump ordered demolition of the historic East Wing to build a 90,000 sq ft ballroom, a move described as irreversible.
- David Smith argues the scale and permanence of this demolition separates it from reversible interior redecorations.
Donor-Funded Ballroom Raises Ethics Questions
- The ballroom project is funded largely by corporate and wealthy donors, raising access and ethics concerns.
- David Smith warns these contributors may gain privileged access and the venue will likely serve corporate and elite interests over the public.