Overview
- Republicans added $1 billion to a border enforcement package for Secret Service work tied to the East Wing modernization, with the bill blocking spending on non‑security items despite Trump's past claim of no federal money.
- Democrats vowed to strip the provision, with Senator Chuck Schumer calling it tone‑deaf, and several Republicans warning the push risks voter backlash over costs.
- A federal judge in April ordered above‑ground construction paused unless Congress authorizes it, and the administration has appealed that ruling.
- The White House frames the plan as security hardening with a bunker, blast‑proofing, drone defenses, secure systems, and medical space, a case it renewed after the Correspondents’ Dinner shooting, yet a poll found 56% oppose the project.
- Local reports said debris from the East Wing demolition tested positive for toxic metals at a public golf course, while the Interior Department said soil from the site was tested multiple times and met legal standards.