U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Katie Britt of Alabama, and Eric Schmitt of Missouri introduced the White House Safety and Security Act of 2026 on Apr. 28. The proposed legislation would provide funding for the construction of a presidential ballroom in the East Wing of the White House.
The senators say this measure is intended to improve security for the president following recent incidents, including a shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner and several assassination attempts against President Trump. The new facility aims to allow presidents to host large events without leaving White House grounds.
“This weekend’s shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner is, tragically, just the latest example of an unhinged radical attempting to take the life of President Trump. These repeated instances of political violence underscore the need to adequately bolster the White House security apparatus,” said Senator Lindsey Graham. “Our legislation is much bigger than simply renovating a venue for large gatherings. Rather, it represents a necessary measure to keep our Commander in Chief – whoever that may be – safe and protected.”
Senator Katie Britt said: “Even before the third assassination attempt on President Trump’s life, there was a clear and present need for a secure, indoor event space on White House grounds, especially due to increased political violence in our country. Given the Department of Homeland Security has been shut down now for 74 days due to Democrats’ continued obstruction, President Trump was smart to not wait around for Congressional Democrats to fund a protected event space. Our bill supports his effort by providing funding to build this ballroom and keep future Presidents, their Cabinet, guests, and other world leaders safe.”
Senator Eric Schmitt added: “The third attempt on President Trump’s life this past weekend is not an isolated incident. It is the latest warning flare in a growing pattern of violent, politically motivated attacks. In this climate, the President and his guests must be able to gather safely on White House grounds. That should not be controversial. It should be basic common sense. Protecting the President of the United States is one of the most fundamental obligations of our government, and this bill will help ensure that no future president has to fear for his life simply for hosting events, meeting with supporters or welcoming guests at the White House.”
Graham has served as a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserves for 33 years according to his official website. He also chaired the Senate Budget Committee according to his official website, represented South Carolina in Congress according to his official website, grew up in Central South Carolina in a blue-collar family according to his official website, and obtained both undergraduate and law degrees from University of South Carolina according to his official website.
The full text of this proposed legislation as well as video from their press conference are available online.
