Rapper Lil Wayne voiced support for President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom, saying the project would improve how the executive residence hosts performances, diplomatic events and major ceremonies.
During an appearance on the “Friends Keep Secrets” podcast, the Grammy-winning rapper, whose legal name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., said he believes critics misunderstood Trump’s explanation for building the venue. Lil Wayne pointed to the president’s comments about the limitations of hosting large gatherings outdoors. Lil Wayne connected those remarks to his own experience performing at former Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2023 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop celebration. The event took place outside at Number One Observatory Circle, the vice president’s official residence. The rapper mistakenly recalled the celebration as being held at the White House. He said the outdoor setting felt like a “backyard barbecue” and expressing surprise that guests were not brought inside. The White House frequently stages large events on the South Lawn because of space and logistical requirements.
Trump has argued that a permanent ballroom would provide a more suitable indoor venue for state dinners, cultural performances, diplomatic receptions and other high-profile gatherings. The president renewed that argument after the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting earlier this year. He writes on Truth Social that a ballroom would offer a “magnificent, safe, and secure” location for future events.