Biden should be thanking Trump.
Former President Joe Biden is publicly criticizing President Donald Trump’s extensive White House renovations, taking issue with the president’s expensive construction projects, gold decorations, and major changes to the historic property.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE magazine, Biden expressed frustration over Trump’s decision to demolish the White House East Wing to make room for a massive new ballroom.
The former president suggested the renovations were more about Trump’s personal legacy than improving the presidential residence.
However, Trump has defended his construction plans, arguing that the upgrades will modernize the White House and provide lasting benefits for future administrations.
The disagreement has sparked a broader debate over presidential authority, government spending, and the preservation of American history.
Biden Slams Trump’s White House Changes
During a November 5 interview at his Delaware home, Biden was asked about Trump’s ambitious efforts to transform portions of the White House.
The former president was particularly critical of the gold-colored decorations added to the Oval Office and the demolition of the East Wing.
Biden described the renovations as disturbing and questioned Trump’s judgment.
He argued that the president appeared more interested in leaving behind personal monuments than maintaining the historic character of the White House.
“I find it beneath the country,” Biden said.
His comments represent another public disagreement between the two longtime political rivals.
While Biden views the changes as excessive, Trump has portrayed the renovations as necessary improvements to one of America’s most recognizable buildings.
Trump’s $600 Million Ballroom Under Fire
At the center of the controversy is Trump’s planned White House ballroom, a project intended to provide a permanent venue for major government receptions, diplomatic gatherings, and state dinners.
The White House originally announced the project with an estimated price of $200 million.
That figure later increased to approximately $400 million, while contractor estimates obtained by The Washington Post projected a total cost of roughly $600 million.
Trump has maintained that private donations will cover the ballroom’s construction expenses.
However, reporting based on contractor records has raised questions about whether some associated construction and security work will rely on taxpayer funding.
The administration has distinguished the ballroom’s construction from security improvements, which it argues are necessary for protecting the White House complex.
Supporters of the project believe a permanent ballroom could eliminate the need for temporary structures during large official events.
Critics question the cost, scale, and decision to demolish a historic section of the building.
Trump Defends His White House Renovation Plans
Trump has repeatedly argued that the White House requires significant modernization and improvements.
The president has pointed to deteriorating architectural features, aging infrastructure, and the need to make the property better suited for official government functions.
He has also emphasized his extensive background in real estate development and construction.
According to Trump, the new ballroom would serve future presidents and provide a suitable location for important national and international events.
The administration has presented the project as a long-term investment in the presidential residence rather than a temporary improvement.
Still, questions about its financing and historical impact have continued to attract attention.
Biden Questions Trump’s Priorities
Biden’s criticism extends beyond the ballroom.
The former president also objected to the addition of gold decorations throughout portions of the White House.
Other changes under Trump include replacing the Rose Garden’s central lawn with paving, installing a new helipad, and pursuing a large ceremonial arch near Arlington National Cemetery.
These projects have generated differing reactions among historians, preservation advocates, and elected officials.
Supporters argue that presidents have traditionally made changes to government buildings to accommodate modern needs.
Opponents believe certain alterations deserve greater oversight because of their historical importance.
Biden suggested that Trump’s approach reflects misplaced priorities.
Trump, meanwhile, maintains that the construction projects are intended to improve and preserve significant American landmarks.
White House Spending Raises Questions
The controversy has also brought renewed attention to the financial costs associated with major government construction projects.
An August investigation by The Washington Post estimated that planned construction work on the White House grounds could total at least $927 million.
That figure included the ballroom and several additional projects, not simply interior decorations or renovations to the presidential residence.
The funding arrangements have become a significant point of disagreement.
Trump has emphasized private contributions, while critics have raised questions about the potential use of federal money.
For taxpayers, the distinction matters because government funding ultimately affects public budgets.
The debate comes as Americans continue weighing federal spending priorities and the need to maintain important public facilities.
White House Renovations Are Nothing New
Changes to the White House have occurred under presidents from both political parties.
Throughout its history, the executive mansion has undergone major renovations, structural repairs, expansions, and interior redesigns.
Some projects addressed serious maintenance problems, while others reflected changing needs for presidential security, official ceremonies, and daily government operations.
The White House has also been updated to incorporate modern technology and accommodate larger events.
However, the scale of Trump’s current construction plans has created new questions about how much authority presidents should have when altering historic federal buildings.
The demolition of the East Wing has made that debate especially significant.
Biden and Trump Remain Divided
Biden’s latest remarks highlight the continuing political tensions between the former president and his successor.
Although Biden left office in January 2025, he has continued offering his views on Trump’s policies and decisions.
His criticism of the White House renovations adds another issue to their longstanding disagreements.
For Biden, the construction projects raise concerns about presidential judgment and respect for historic institutions.
For Trump, the changes represent an opportunity to modernize important government facilities and leave improvements that future administrations can use.
The competing arguments have created a debate that goes beyond the two presidents.
What Happens Next for Trump’s White House?
As construction continues, attention will remain focused on the project’s final costs, funding sources, and effect on the historic White House complex.
Legal challenges and preservation concerns have already complicated portions of the ballroom project.
Future developments could determine how much additional construction moves forward and whether further approvals are required.
For now, Trump remains committed to his vision for the White House, while Biden has made his disapproval clear.
The controversy ultimately centers on a question that affects every American, regardless of political affiliation.
Should presidents have broad authority to redesign the White House, or should major changes to the historic property require stricter oversight and public accountability?