Trump defends ‘relaxing’ ballroom project after Republican midterm setback

US President, used his first post-midterms appearance before a packed crowd to promote his proposed White House ballroom, telling supporters how it was built and designed and largely ignoring questions about his party’s historic defeat in the midterm vote.

Trump showed off the site to reporters on Wednesday as workers put the finishing touches on the building that is rising on the spot of the East Wing, which was torn down.

It was over 20 minutes of giving the details of the item, he said, including that it was made of limestone columns, inlaid marble flooring and discussed chandeliers and security.

” This is an unprecedented structure that has never been seen anywhere,” Trump said, as reported by The Associated Press.

While defending the project, he told the Daily Mail the White House was the “world’s most iconic home and you must treat it with respect”, and added “it’s relaxing” for him.”

Democrats secured major victories in Tuesday’s elections, capturing control of both congressional chambers.

Trump disowned the losses later, claiming he wasn’t on the ballot at the time. He also blamed the war with Iran for the red wave, by raising fuel prices, though he said he would make the same call.

The vote has added pressure to the president’s agenda in the face of people’s worries about the cost of living.