Trump touts White House ballroom in first appearance since GOP midterm losses
According to CBS News, President Trump made his first appearance since the Republican midterm election losses at the construction site of the new White House ballroom. Surrounded by workers and reporters, Trump praised the ballroom and a new helipad as a "thing of beauty," claiming his administration has "beautified" Washington, D.C. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum lauded Trump as the "greatest builder that has ever been president." Addressing concerns about his focus on construction projects rather than election results, Trump stated he finds the work "relaxing." Regarding the GOP's electoral defeat, Trump agreed with Vice President JD Vance that the war in Iran was a major factor due to its impact on gas prices. Trump expressed willingness to work with Democrats in Congress while noting he retains the power of the veto, and dismissed reports suggesting he might replace Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.