President Donald Trump has achieved something unprecedented for a sitting U.S. president

On August 5, President Donald Trump made history as the first sitting president to step onto the White House roof, where he waved to reporters while reviewing blueprints for a massive expansion project.

Trump announced plans for a new 90,000-square-foot ballroom, a $200 million undertaking that will be financed through his personal funds along with private donations.

Brushing off the moment with humor, Trump described the rooftop stroll as “just taking a little walk,” but his appearance signaled the scale of his latest ambition for the presidential residence.

Known for his background in real estate and development, Trump has already left his mark on the White House grounds. Previous projects include renovations to the Rose Garden, upgrades to the Oval Office, and the installation of new flagpoles.

The upcoming ballroom, designed by architect Jim McCrery, is intended to host large state functions and ceremonies, adding a new layer of grandeur to the historic estate.

Trump mixed lighthearted comments with serious undertones during his remarks, joking about “nuclear missiles” before returning to his broader theme of legacy and spectacle.

Framing the expansion as a gift to the nation, Trump said the ballroom was “just more ways to spend my money for the country,” highlighting both his personal investment and desire to leave a lasting mark on the presidency.