In a recent revelation by biographer Michael Wolff, a new nickname has emerged from within the White House for President Donald Trump's ambitious $300 million ballroom project. According to Wolff, insiders have been referring to it as the "Epstein Ballroom," a moniker that draws an uncomfortable parallel between the president's past acquaintance with the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and the current construction endeavor.
The claim surfaced during Wolff's interview on the Daily Beast podcast "Inside Trump’s Head," where he mentioned that the term was used casually by an aide during a conversation. The aide reportedly became "sheepish" upon further inquiry but confirmed that the nickname had been circulated "more than a few times."
The project, which aims to replace the demolished East Wing with a grand ballroom named after President Trump, has been met with mixed reactions. The insider's use of the "Epstein Ballroom" nickname suggests a level of embarrassment among the president's own team regarding the project. Scheduled for completion in 2029, the ballroom has been criticized as a "vanity project" by detractors, who argue that its cost and concept border on the preposterous.
Trump's association with Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 facing charges of underage sex trafficking, has been a point of contention and speculation. Wolff's comments imply that the connection is still a topic of discussion and concern within Trump's circle.
In response to Wolff's allegations, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung vehemently attacked Wolff's credibility, labeling him a "lying sack of s*it" and accusing him of having "Trump Derangement Syndrome." Wolff is currently engaged in a legal battle with Melania Trump, claiming she has attempted to obstruct inquiries related to Trump's relationship with Epstein. The lawsuit, according to Wolff, could lead to subpoenas for the president and first lady, potentially unveiling private details about the Trump-Epstein connection.
Amidst growing criticism of the ballroom project, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has emphasized that it remains Trump's "main priority." Meanwhile, online commentators and some insiders have mockingly suggested that the ballroom be named after Epstein, a notion that underscores the persistent shadow of the scandal over Trump's presidency.
