0:19President Donald Trump gestures to the media from the roof of the West Wing at the White House in Washington, Aug. 5, 2025.Samuel Corum/Pool/EPA/Shutterstock
In his role as the chief developer, President Donald Trump made an unexpected appearance on the White House roof above the briefing room, seemingly to evaluate prospective construction.
The press, having been moved significantly down the driveway, sought to understand the situation.
"Mr. President, what are you doing up there?"
"Just taking a little walk," he called back.
President Donald Trump gestures to the media from the roof of the West Wing at the White House in Washington, Aug. 5, 2025.Samuel Corum/Pool/EPA/Shutterstock
"What are you constructing?"
"It’s connected to the ballroom, located on the other side," he explained.
When pressed further by journalists, Trump remarked "Something beautiful," while gesturing with his hands.
Trump commented it was "Just more ways to spend my money," adding "Just more ways to spend my money for the country."
"Anything I do is funded by me," he emphasized.
President Donald Trump shouts answers to questions from reporters as he tours the roof of the West Wing of the White House, August 5, 2025 in Washington.Win McNamee/Getty Images
When asked if he was contemplating an extension or a second level, Trump remained noncommittal.
The president was joined by a small entourage of aides and Secret Service members. Among them was architect Jim McCrery, who has been tasked with adding Trump’s ballroom to the White House. The two appeared to be engaged in a lively conversation while surveying the area with much animated pointing.
Trump then moved out of view for several minutes, presumably to gaze towards the South Lawn.
President Donald Trump walks on the roof of the West Wing at the White House in Washington, Aug. 5, 2025.Samuel Corum/Pool/EPA/Shutterstock
Upon his return, reporters once again attempted to extract more details.
"What are you trying to construct?" one reporter shouted.
"Missiles," Trump replied, likely in jest. "Nuclear missiles," he reiterated while mimicking the launch of a rocket.
Trump then sidestepped a question regarding Gaza and walked back inside.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
