Lil Wayne has backed President Donald Trump’s plan for a White House ballroom, arguing that major performers should not have to take the stage outdoors for high-profile events. The rapper connected his view to a 2023 performance at an event hosted by then-Vice President Kamala Harris.
Speaking on the “Friends Keep Secrets” podcast, Wayne said he welcomed Trump’s argument that White House events are often held “on the damn lawn.” He said critics may misunderstand the practical reason for a permanent indoor venue.
A performance that shaped Wayne’s view
Wayne, whose legal name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., performed during a 2023 celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The gathering took place outside at Number One Observatory Circle, and he said the setting felt like a “backyard barbecue.”
He said he had expected to be heading inside the White House when he arrived for the performance. Instead, the outdoor setup reinforced his belief that a formal indoor space would better serve major ceremonies and entertainment events.
“So, people who don’t know nothing [are] hearing that thinking he’s just being Trump — no, for real, I was glad to hear him saying that,” Wayne said on the podcast, according to www.foxnews.com. His comments centered on the logistical value of a ballroom rather than a broader political endorsement.
Trump’s case for a ballroom
Trump has described the proposed ballroom as a long-needed upgrade for state dinners, diplomatic receptions, performances and other large White House functions. He has also said an indoor venue could improve security for high-profile gatherings.
In a Truth Social post in May, Trump said construction was moving rapidly on the east side of the White House. He rejected reports that the project’s costs had expanded without explanation.
| Proposal | Stated Cost | Trump’s Description |
|---|---|---|
| Original proposal | $200 million | Not adequate for necessary events, meetings and future inaugurations |
| Expanded project | Less than $400 million | About twice the size and of higher quality than the original plan |
Trump said the revised plan became more expensive because it was redesigned at a larger scale. He called the planned ballroom “magnificent, safe, and secure” and said it was ahead of schedule and under budget.
Wayne’s remarks place the debate in a performer’s perspective, focusing on the difference between staging a major event outside and holding it in a permanent indoor venue. His experience at the hip-hop anniversary celebration became the central example behind his support for the project.