Ah, the sound of progress — or dissent, depending on which side of the political spectrum one falls. The bustling clatter of construction begins on the East Side of the White House, as President Trump embarks on the ambitious task of constructing a $250 million ballroom. The project, of course, is aptly self-funded, much to the chagrin of those who would rather see taxpayer dollars frittered away on less entertaining government expenditures. For some, the sweet sounds of cranes and bulldozers are music to the ears; for others, it seems akin to an orchestra playing a dirge at a historical funeral.
Predictably, those seated around the liberal peanut gallery, like the ladies of “The View,” might break into protest songs. Mournful verses lament the perceived desecration of a historic wonder, clutching their pearls as they envision the downfall of American architectural legacy. It might almost be comedic if only they weren’t so earnestly grave about change. They lament the supposed “wrecking ball” metaphorically smashing history when, in reality, it’s merely rejuvenation. Someone should remind them that even the legendary Teddy Roosevelt added to the White House’s structure, yet history seems to still be intact.
Of course, the Democrats never lack for something to moan about. Any action, particularly one that’s a point of pride for the opposing party, miraculously becomes the nation’s downfall. Yet, it’s amusingly ironic that these are the same folks who have witnessed Trumps’ strides in both domestic and international fronts but choose to critique his multitasking prowess. They reduce his accomplishments to mere illusions, unable to fathom how a leader might juggle numerous responsibilities with ease — or as they might deem it, with suspicious ease.
There’s a certain disdain for grandeur when it comes from the other side. President Trump’s ballroom becomes a symbol, much like the man himself, causing ripples of concerned chatter. Perhaps it’s envy or simply a disbelief that one can wield executive power with grand ambition and leave a tangible legacy. The beauty of the matter is that this ballroom, despite the criticisms, carries no burden on taxpayers. Perhaps it’s this very fact that irks the opposition the most: it’s Trump paying his own way rather than demanding their favored tax hikes fund his visions.
In the storied halls of the White House, additions, renovations, and changes have always been par for the course. Nixon’s bowling alley, Kennedy’s swimming pool, Roosevelt’s expansions — the list goes on. The realization that Trump’s ballroom follows in this grand tradition might be a bridge too far for his critics to cross. Nevertheless, history has always favored those who dare to dream big. While the naysayers indulge in their endless cycle of chatter, the ballroom will rise and stand testament to a presidency that dared to leave its own mark, both figuratively and literally.
