Silicon Valley's biggest names are bankrolling President Trump's $250 million White House ballroom project, marking a dramatic shift in tech's relationship with the administration. Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft are among the donors funding the 90,000-square-foot addition that can host 1,000 guests - a stark contrast to the industry's resistance during Trump's first term.
The demolition crews working on the White House East Wing this week represent more than just construction - they're tearing down the old walls between Silicon Valley and Trump's Washington. What's rising in its place is a 90,000-square-foot ballroom that tells the story of big tech's complete political transformation.
Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft are all cutting checks for Trump's $250 million private project, according to donor lists released by the White House on Thursday. The ballroom will accommodate 1,000 guests, making it one of the largest event spaces in government.
But it's Google's contribution that reveals the most about this new dynamic. At least $20 million of the search giant's donation comes directly from a lawsuit settlement over YouTube's suspension of Trump's account following the January 6, 2021 riots. The company hasn't disclosed whether that represents their full contribution to the ballroom fund.
This marks a stunning reversal from 2016, when much of Silicon Valley initially resisted Trump's first presidency. Meta didn't donate to Trump's first inauguration fund but contributed $1 million to his second. Amazon jumped from $58,000 to $1 million between inaugurations.
The shift reflects calculated business strategy more than political preference. Most of these tech giants are currently facing antitrust litigation that could reshape their entire business models. Trump's administration has taken a markedly softer approach to antitrust enforcement compared to the aggressive stance under former FTC Chair Lina Khan during Biden's presidency.
