Trump’s ballroom dream sparks big money meltdown in Senate

LocalPolitics
21 May 2026 • 2:59 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Trump’s ballroom dream sparks big money meltdown in Senate

  • Senate Republican leaders are poised to abandon a proposed $1 billion security package for the White House complex and Donald Trump’s ballroom, following significant pushback from within their own party.
  • Lawmakers questioned the timing and lack of detailed justification for the Secret Service’s request, which was intended to be added to a larger bill restoring funding to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol.
  • The security proposal faced immediate criticism from several GOP members who raised concerns about the cost and allocation of taxpayer dollars, especially amid voter concerns over basic affordability.
  • Internal wrangling also includes a controversial 'anti-weaponization' fund for Donald Trump’s allies and his public criticism of the Senate, further exacerbating tensions within the Republican party.
  • The bill now primarily contains funding for ICE and Border Patrol, which Republicans aim to pass using a budget maneuver, but its passage still hinges on parliamentary approval and unified Republican support.

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