Trump’s New White House Helipad Project Labeled a ‘Joke’ by Democrat Lawmaker

Trump suggested that the helipad could also be used for other White House activities, such as events and news conferences. It was reported earlier this year that Trump had made the case for a new helipad at the White House, but the plans were not confirmed until Monday.

The latest White House renovation has already drawn criticism from some lawmakers.

Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York called the project a “joke,” arguing that Trump is prioritizing construction projects instead of important legislation.

“Trump has refused to sign a bipartisan housing bill that would lower costs for working Americans, build more housing, and stop private equity from buying up homes. But he’s laser-focused on building a new helipad,” she said.

The project’s cost has also come under scrutiny, after the Washington Post reported that the White House had accelerated construction ahead of an “upcoming state visit,” increasing costs by roughly $875,000, according to documents viewed by the publication. The documents obtained by the Post do not name the subject of the state visit, but officials requested the accelerated construction timeline days after Trump invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit on Sept. 24, according to the publication.