Trump White House ballroom funding hit after Senate ruling blocks proposal

Washington D.C.: A proposed move to use federal funds for security-related work tied to President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project has been blocked after a Senate rule official ruled the provision out of order.

Senate parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough rejected the measure on Saturday, agreeing with Democratic objections that the funding did not comply with budget rules governing what can be included in the package.

The blocked provision was part of a broader Republican spending plan that included funds for Homeland Security and proposed security upgrades linked to White House infrastructure, including the East Wing.

Democrats argued taxpayer money should not be used for the ballroom project, which Trump has said will instead rely on private donations. Republicans had sought to include federal security funding following a recent security incident at a Trump-attended event.

The decision marks a setback for Republicans, who are expected to revise the bill and reintroduce elements of the proposal through the budget process.

The ballroom project has drawn political debate in Washington, with critics questioning its cost and scope, while supporters say it is part of broader White House modernisation efforts.