Democrats eye midterm opening in Trump ballroom security funding figh

Democrats are eyeing a midterm messaging weapon in a Republican proposal to use $1 billion in federal funds for security upgrades tied to President Donald Trump’s planned White House ballroom.

The proposed funding does not appear to be for the construction of the ballroom itself, which Trump has repeatedly said would be financed through personal contributions and private donors. Instead, the funding is earmarked for security-related upgrades connected to the project, formally known as the “East Wing Modernization Project,” the ballroom construction’s official name. GOP lawmakers are poised to include the money in a broader party-line $70 billion immigration enforcement package.

Democrats see the issue as potent political messaging ahead of the midterms, arguing Republicans are effectively using taxpayer money to support Trump’s White House expansion plans while voters remain concerned about costs and affordability.

“If you are mad about Republicans’ shoveling $1 BILLION at Trump’s ballroom—as you should be!—just remember: Trump