Republicans skeptical on funding security for ballroom while White House amps up pressure
The White House is increasing the pressure on skeptical Republicans who are questioning the $1 billion price tag for security funding related to the president’s ballroom renovation project.
Secret Service Director Sean Curran attended a private lunch meeting Tuesday afternoon with Senate Republicans, where he was pressed for details on which part of the funding would go to secure the ballroom and what would be used for other purposes, according to senators leaving the meeting. Curran argued the funding would bolster security for the whole East Wing complex and other protective measures, not just the ballroom.
That would include $220 million for “hardening” the ballroom both above and below ground, including bulletproof glass and drone and chemical detection systems, according to a handout given to senators. Another $180 million would be used for a new White House visitor screening facility, $175 million each for training Secret Service agents and enhancing “protectee security,” $150 million to counter “emerging threats” like biological weapons and airspace incursions, and $100 million for securing high-profile national events.
Some Republicans in both chambers have been privately raising concerns about the funding request just months before the midterm elections, as Americans complain about the economy and the war in Iran. Republicans can lose only a few votes in both chambers and still successfully pass the bill without Democratic support.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/republicans-skeptical-funding-security-ballroom-213448721.html
It's a grift.
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