Fine Arts Panel Approves Trump's White House East Wing Ballroom Plans

The Commission of Fine Arts voted to approve the design plan for the proposed 90,000-square-foot addition despite overwhelming public opposition.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Commission of Fine Arts voted on Thursday to approve the design plan for President Donald Trump's proposed White House ballroom, despite receiving over 2,000 public comments that were overwhelmingly opposed to the project. The panel, made up of new members appointed by Trump, approved the plans near unanimously without further review, with one commissioner recusing himself. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has sued to stop the project, but the judge has expressed skepticism of the government's arguments.

Why it matters

The approval of the ballroom plans despite strong public opposition raises concerns about the democratic process and the preservation of historic landmarks. The White House East Wing has significant historical value, and the proposed addition could set a precedent for future alterations to the iconic building.

The details

The Commission of Fine Arts voted to approve the design plan for the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition to the White House East Wing. The panel, made up of new members appointed by Trump, did so near unanimously without further review, despite receiving over 2,000 public comments that were overwhelmingly opposed to the project. One commissioner, James McCrery, the president's White House architect, recused himself from the vote, saying it would be 'inappropriate' for him to comment or vote on the plans.

  • The Commission of Fine Arts voted on Thursday to approve the design plan.
  • The National Trust for Historic Preservation has sued to stop the project, and the judge has expressed skepticism of the government's arguments.
  • The National Capital Planning Commission will also consider the ballroom project during its March meeting.

The players

Rodney Mims Cook Jr.

The chairman of the Commission of Fine Arts who moved to approve the plans as 'final' after first voting to back the 'concept' of the construction project.

James McCrery

The president's White House architect who recused himself from the vote, saying it would be 'inappropriate' for him to comment or vote on the plans.

Shalom Baranes

Trump's new ballroom architect who presented updated design plans to the Commission of Fine Arts.

Thomas Luebke

The secretary of the Commission of Fine Arts who presented the group with the public's objection to the East Wing's destruction and the ballroom's construction.

Will Scharf

The Trump-appointed White House staff secretary who will lead the National Capital Planning Commission's consideration of the ballroom project during its March meeting.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.