Trump Criticizes CNN Reporter Over White House Ballroom Cost
President Donald Trump recently took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to express his frustration with CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins over her questioning of the cost of the new White House ballroom. The 79-year-old leader labeled Collins as “stupid and nasty” for raising concerns about the increased price tag for the project.
The controversy began when Collins questioned Trump about the rise in costs for the ballroom, which is being built where the East Wing used to be. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Caitlin [sic] Collin’s of Fake News CNN, always Stupid and Nasty, asked me why the new Ballroom was costing more money than originally thought one year ago.”
He responded by stating that the increase was due to the ballroom being “double the size” and featuring “the highest level” of finishes and interiors. Despite the higher cost, Trump claimed that the project is “actually under budget and ahead of schedule.” He added, “It’s just much bigger and more beautiful than originally planned.”
Trump also highlighted that the ballroom is being privately funded for $300 million, up from the original estimated $200 million. Among the 37 donors are major tech companies like Amazon and Google, as well as cryptocurrency investors.
The president criticized CNN for not highlighting the private funding in their reporting. He wrote: “FAKE NEWS CNN, and the guy who runs the whole corrupt operation that owns it, is one of the worst in the business. Their ratings are so low that they’re not even counted or relevant anymore. MAGA!!!”
It remains unclear when Collins raised the issue with Trump. However, she mentioned it during her CNN show, The Source with Kaitlan Collins, on Friday. During the segment, she described the ongoing construction at the White House, saying: “You see that giant crane that is over my shoulder? That’s the latest addition to the construction zone here at the White House, where President Trump’s ballroom is going to go eventually.”
The increase in the ballroom’s price came after Trump replaced James McCrery II and his architecture firm in late October. According to reports, Trump and McCrery had disagreements over the size of the new building. A source told The Washington Post that Trump decided to replace the designer after McCrery’s firm repeatedly missed deadlines and struggled with its small workforce.
Although it is unclear if McCrery stepped back voluntarily, sources indicated that Trump and McCrery remain on good terms. The ballroom, funded by big tech donors, is officially described as 90,000 square feet—significantly larger than the 55,000 square feet mansion residence section of the White House complex.
CNN has defended Collins, calling her an “exceptional journalist” who brings depth and tenacity to her reporting. A spokesperson for the network told The Daily Mail: “She skillfully brings that reporting to the anchor chair and CNN platforms every day, which audiences around the world know they can trust.”
Despite this, CNN declined to directly comment on Trump’s post about Collins. The Daily Mail has reached out to the White House for further comment.
Key Questions Surrounding the Ballroom Project
- How did a combative exchange with an Aussie reporter lead Trump to unveil plans for a lavish new White House ballroom?
- Why does Trump believe a $100 million ballroom is the perfect touch for the White House?
- How is Trump’s ambitious ballroom project transforming the White House amidst government clash and controversy?
- What’s the real cost behind Trump’s dazzling White House ballroom—feast or folly of opulence?
- What outrageous tidbit about Obama’s renovations is fueling the fiery debate over Trump’s White House ballroom?