Trump's Vanity Projects Are Wildly Unpopular. Why Is He Forging On?

"It was a few months into the administration. Back then, it was going to be entirely privately funded. He talked about raising money, and he had fundraisers at the White House. It was an easier thing to fundraise for because he could raise money in tax-deductible donations, which is different than a political donation. The companies that like to show they're big fans of Trump and wanted to win his favor gave lots of money and were able to take tax deductions on seven-figure checks."

"I remember the first discussions were that they could do it for about $200 million. Now it's upwards of $400 million. We don't know if it'll stay there. He keeps saying it's under budget. No matter how high the number goes, he says "

"He's proposed a 250-foot arch in front of Arlington National Cemetery, redoing the reflecting pool, and even adding his face to passports and coins. While some of these are easily reversible with the next president, Trump is trying to make a statement of sorts."

"" He's really interested in the bragging rights of the moment," said Michael Scherer, a journalist at the Atlantic. "President Trump only has four years in his second term, and he wants to get a lot done.""

Bulldozers removed the White House East Wing, with multiple renderings showing a new structure and oversized staircases. The White House ballroom has drawn constant attention and began a few months into the administration, initially described as entirely privately funded. Fundraisers at the White House and tax-deductible donations helped attract large contributions from companies seeking favor. Early estimates placed the cost around $200 million, later rising to about $400 million, with uncertainty about whether it will increase further. Other proposals include a 250-foot arch at Arlington National Cemetery, changes to the reflecting pool, and adding Trump’s face to passports and coins. The projects aim to make a statement and secure bragging rights within a limited time frame.

Read at Slate Magazine