By Basant El-Faramawy
US President Donald Trump held a topping-out ceremony for a $400 million ballroom at the White House East Wing on Wednesday, less than 24 hours after Democrats secured controlling majorities in both the House and Senate in the midterm elections.
Ballroom ceremony overshadows election losses
Instead of addressing the historic defeat, Trump focused on the ballroom's features, including a glass tube connecting to the East Room, chandeliers, marble floors, and a helipad on the South Lawn. He also complained about a lawsuit blocking renovation of a Potomac River golf course.
Contrast with presidential predecessors
The event contrasted sharply with past presidents' post-midterm reflections. In 2010, Barack Obama acknowledged a "shellacking," and in 2006, George W. Bush accepted responsibility for Republican losses. Trump, however, displayed no self-reflection, emphasizing the White House as a symbol of America that must be "pristine" and "perfect."
Trump acknowledges Iran war impact on gas prices
When questioned about Vice President JD Vance's post on X blaming the party's drubbing on the unpopular Iran war, Trump conceded the conflict had driven up gasoline prices, calling Vance's assessment "largely true." He added he would still launch the war again for long-term reasons.
Trump then returned to describing the ballroom, urging reporters to "envision chandeliers" and "envision marble floors," declaring it would be "the most beautiful building."
