A major construction plan at the White House under President Donald Trump has drawn criticism beyond political circles. The project involves extensive changes to the presidential grounds, including a new ballroom and additional security infrastructure. Its funding and legal status have also raised questions about how the work was approved and financed.
These developments have now prompted a pointed response from a former New England Patriots star.
Asante Samuel Criticizes Donald Trump’s $900 Million White House Project
Former New England Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel took aim at President Trump after reports detailed more than $900 million in planned White House construction and modernization work.
Samuel reshared a TMZ post about the spending and responded with a sarcastic message. “I guess this is making America great again. Child, please,” Samuel wrote.
I guess this is making America great again. Child please https://t.co/xRz3pQ7PsY
— Asante Samuel (@pick_six22) August 12, 2026
The two-time Super Bowl champion’s comment came as the project faces scrutiny over both its price and funding structure.
The broader plan includes a $600 million, 90,000-square-foot ballroom on the site of the demolished East Wing, along with underground security facilities, a presidential helipad, and other changes around the White House grounds.
The administration has also faced questions about how much of the project was financed without a direct congressional appropriation. According to the information provided, $875 million was moved into the White House Repair and Restoration account through federal transfers, private contributions, and other sources.
Federal agencies reportedly supplied $500 million, while private donors contributed $305 million. Another $70 million is reported to have come through unidentified sources. The funding approach has become a major part of the criticism surrounding the construction plan.
Samuel’s post also comes after he has previously used social media to criticize Trump and his political supporters. His latest comment, however, focuses specifically on the cost and scale of the White House project.
The court battle has further complicated the future of the White House construction project.
On Aug. 7, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ordered a temporary halt to above-ground construction connected to the ballroom. The 2-1 ruling found that major changes to the White House grounds require congressional authorization under existing law.
The court’s order does not put a stop on every part of the project. Underground work tied to security infrastructure can continue while the administration challenges the decision.
Trump has vowed to take the dispute to the U.S. Supreme Court, giving his administration a limited window to seek relief. The appeals court placed a 14-day hold on its ruling, giving the White House time to pursue an emergency appeal.
This legal deadline puts the project’s next phase in the hands of the Supreme Court.
