Pokémon Legends: Z-A officially launches in October and will offer 'improved graphics and frame rates' on the Nintendo Switch 2 version
Pokémon Legends: Z-A will officially launch on October 16 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
A digital or physical Switch version can be upgraded to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition via a $10 upgrade pack
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will "offer improved graphics and frame rates"
The Pokémon Company has announced that Pokémon Legends: Z-A will officially launch on October 16 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
Pre-orders for the next major Pokémon game begin on June 5, and it's been confirmed that players who purchase either a digital or physical version on the Switch can upgrade their copy to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition via a $10 upgrade pack on the Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store.
It might be worth investing in the Switch 2 Edition as The Pokémon Company has also revealed in a social media post that the version will "offer improved graphics and frame rates", but there's no new trailer for us to compare to the Switch version just yet.
In addition, players who pre-order Legends: Z-A through the Pokémon Center in the US, UK, and Canada will receive a random, exclusive Pokémon Sitting Cuties plush featuring Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile.
According to Nintendo, those who pre-order a version of the game from My Nintendo Store will receive a Partner Pokémon figurine as a bonus item, and Mega Evolution, Trainer, and Champion's Choice bundles will also be available."
We've also received brand new cover art for the game, along with an official blurb, which reads: "Pokémon Legends: Z-A is a new frontier for the Pokémon video game series, blending an RPG story unfolding in a single city with action elements and a real-time battle system unlike anything seen before in the franchise.
"Trainers can look forward to the beginning of a new adventure in Lumiose City — one woven by people and Pokémon together!"
Pokémon fans won't have to wait long for another look at the game because the next Pokémon Presents livestream will air this summer on July 22.
The Nintendo Switch 2 launches next week on June 5 for $449.99 / £395.99, and $499.99 / £429.99 for the official Mario Kart World bundle, which comes with a digital copy of the game.
UK pre-orders and US pre-orders are now live. If you missed out on securing a pre-order, GameStop and Best Buy have announced that they will be restocking Switch 2 units in-store and online during the console's launch.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders live: latest UK stock updates as My Nintendo Store's pre-order date arrives, while US pre-orders remain delayed
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been spotted at retailers ahead of its June release - but the reported stock numbers aren't huge
Sony's Days of Play sale kicks off tomorrow and will bring price cuts to the PS5 Pro, DualSense Edge, the PS5 Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 bundle, and a host of price cuts on accessories and games
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Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Jalen Hurts and Bry Burrows Are a Cute Couple in Philadelphia, Plus Jessica Alba, Jordan Chiles, Will Smith and More
Celebrities have been everywhere this week, from Bry Burrows and Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia, to Jessica Alba in West Hollywood. Here are the best photos of celebs out and about this week. Come back tomorrow for more of the latest A-list outings! Cute Couple Bry Burrows and Jalen Hurts pose on the Green Carpet at The Battery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 18. Glowing Gal Jessica Alba is seen out and about in West Hollywood, Calif., on July 18. Rock on Jordan Chiles poses at Dave & Buster's Time Square in New York City on July 18. Music Man Will Smith performs live onstage during the Based on a True Story tour at Festhalle Frankfurt in Germany on July 18. Sing It Benson Boone performs onstage during the Lollapalooza Paris Festival in France on July 18. Big Chief Jason Momoa attends the world premiere of his new Apple TV+ series Chief of War which debuts in August in Ko Olina Beach, Hawaii, on July 18. Shining Star Olivia Rodrigo gives an electric performance onstage at the 2025 Lollapalooza Paris Festival on July 18. Blossoming Beauty Miranda Cosgrove sports a summery floral look while attending Netflix's Summer Break event on July 17 in Santa Monica, California. Retail Therapy Mom-of-four Hilary Duff goes shopping at kids' store Ragg Tattoo in Los Angeles on July 18. LBD Moment Camila Mendes stuns in a form-fitting black mini dress as she attends the Instagram x Benito Skinner Chateau dinner on July 18 in Los Angeles. At the Movies Andrea Barber and Jodie Sweetin attend a special screening of the film Before We Forget in Los Angeles on July 18. Fun Snapshot AJ McLean poses with fans onstage at Netflix's Summer Break event held at the Santa Monica Pier in California on July 17. Camera Ready Dylan Dreyer is in happy spirits while filming the Today show at the Rockefeller Plaza in New York City on July 18. Casual Charm Kyle MacLachlan opts for a laidback look while attending the Instagram x Benito Skinner Chateau Dinner on July 18 in Los Angeles. Say Cheese Jo Koy interacts with fans as he supports Manny Pacquiao (not pictured) at his ceremonial weigh-in at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on July 18. On the Move Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz are seen holding hands in the French Rivera on July 18. Catching up with the Fans SZA says hi to fans on her way to her car in Paris, amidst her and Kendrick Lamar's Grand National Tour on July 17. Summer Getaway Paul Wesley and Natalie Kuckenburg bask in the sun at the Amalfi Coast in Italy on July 17. Plushy Pals Actress Gina Rodriguez stops by Warmies' SoHo Pop-up in New York with her family to pick some plushies for her son and little one on the way on July 18. Silver and Stripes Sarah Cheung and Brooks Nader attend the VIP Preview for makeup brand Sacheu on July 18 in Los Angeles. Words of Wisdom Olympic track and field superstar Allyson Felix shares some words as the keynote speaker at Create & Cultivate Supper Club in Los Angeles. Out to Lunch Heather Graham heads to The Ivy restaurant in a all white outfit in Los Angeles on July 18. Pump up the Jams J Balvin and Valentina Ferrer keep the good vibes going at a release party for Balvin's new album Mixteip in New York City on July 17. Screen to Stage Nathalie Emmanuel attends the press night performance of Sing Street in London on July 18. Smile and Wave Kat Graham zips by on a golf cart while leaving Access Hollywood in Los Angeles. Love Off the Island Love Island's Clarke Carraway and Taylor Williams dance the night away at Wizkid's 35th Birthday in held at Zouk L.A. Make Me Loose My Breath Tyla steps out in a comfy and casual outfit in London on July 17. 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Avengers Assemble Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky pose with their adorable children Sasha and Tristan at the Limitless: Live Better Now season 2 premiere in London on July 17. Blue-Eyed Babes Liam Hemsworth and Gabriella Brooks smolder at the camera while attending he Limitless: Live Better Now season 2 London on July 17. All's Right in Red Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson flashes a dazzling smile while attending the 3rd Knights of Charity Gala at Chateau de la Croix des Gardes in Cannes, France on July 17. Kickin' it with Casalegno Gavin Casalegno sports black headphones and a white tank while arriving at CBS Mornings on July 17 in New York. Love Letter Alexa Chung shows her love for New York while wearing a black lace camisole paired with a leather skirt. Keeping Up With Koko Khloé Kardashian is spotted wearing a brown outfit with a plunging neckline and a chunky silver necklace while enjoying dinner in Malibu with Kris Jenner (not pictured). 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Pre-Show Snack Suni Lee enjoys a bite from Raising Cane's ahead of the ESPY Awards in Los Angeles on July 16. Snake Eyes Emily Ratajkowski rocks a blue snakeskin dress to promote Too Much on Late Night with Seth Meyers in New York on July 16. It's George! Jason Alexander arrives to his SAG-AFTRA Actor Masterclass event in Los Angeles on July 16. Hollywood Hawkeye Jeremy Renner is seen out and about in Los Angeles on July 16. Grand Entrance Taraji P. Henson is all smiles as she arrives to Megan Thee Stallion's Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala in New York on July 16. Live from L.A.! Busta Rhymes and Simone Biles get together for a backstage photo at the ESPY Awards in Los Angeles on July 16. Breaking Her Poker Face Natasha Lyonne snaps a selfie atop the Empire State Building at a celebration of her new movie Smurfs on July 16. Boho Girl Kelsea Ballerini wears a perfectly-summer dress at at her launch event with Pantene held at Empire Diner in New York on July 15. A Place in the Sun Michael Douglas soaks up the sun at Club 55 in Saint-Tropez on July 16. Street Style Queen Fresh off her first Emmy nomination for The Studio, Zoë Kravitz is seen looking cool as ever around New York on July 16. A Magical Performance Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons puts on a thrilling show with his band in Hamburg, Germany on July 16. Living It Up in London Town Socialite Emma Weymouth, Marchioness of Bath, looks regal at the Joshua Kane Summer Showcase 2025 at in London on July 16. Smurf Stars Co-stars of the upcoming Smurfs movie, Nick Offerman and John Goodman pose together on the Empire State Building on July 16. Summer Days Husband and wife duo Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell step out for a stroll in New York on July 16. Three's Company Canali CEO Stefano Canali, GQ Global Editorial Director Will Welch and Walton Goggins co-host Canali's celebratory dinner in New York on July 15. Bumping Along Rihanna keeps it casual in a strapless top paired with a sweatshirt while stepping out in L.A. on July 14. Dog Days Lola Tung brings along an adorable companion while out in New York City on July 15. Just Being Miley Miley Cyrus looks as cool as ever for her appearance at SiriusXM Studios in L.A. on July 15. Good to Glow Jennifer Lopez dazzles from the stage while performing at Palau Sant Jordi in Barcelona on July 15. Dynamic Duo Russell Wilson and Ciara bring date night to a taping of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on July 15 in New York City. Music Man Stevie Wonder attends the Reel to Reel: Ed Sullivan event at Grammy Museum L.A. Live on July 15 in L.A. Own Biggest Fan Megan Stalter reps herself while making an appearance at The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on July 15 in New York City. Making the Rounds Idris Elba meets members of the India men's cricket team ahead of the Youth Opportunity Summit at St. James's Palace on July 15 in London. 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Crowd Pleaser Rebecca Black has some fun on stage at the Kia Forum on July 15 in Inglewood, California. Oui! Following a concert earlier in the evening, Mary J. Blige and 50 Cent (not pictured) grabbed dinner at César in Paris on July 14. New York Minute Nicole Scherzinger keeps cool in a flowy white dress while strolling along in New York City on July 15. Suited Up Emily Ratajkowski rocks a white suit outside CBS Studios on July 16 in New York City. Leather Look Leslie Jones steps out for the USWNTPA Players Ball on July 15 at Rolling Greens in L.A. Read the original article on People
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Forbes
5 Of 2025's Best Cheap Switch 2 Accessories: Cases, Pads, And More
You've paid a lot for your Nintendo Switch 2, so now it's time to pay less for the inevitable ... More accessories you need for it. So, you've spent $500 on this year's hottest console, which now begs the question: given you've already paid a small fortune for it, should you stick with Nintendo for Switch 2 accessories? If 2025's early selection is anything to go by, it's a great chance to save some money. You'd be forgiven for questioning the quality of the third-party cases, covers, controllers, and charging docks that have flooded stores so quickly after launch day, but this is 2025. It's one hell of a competitive market, and one that's driving probably the best level of craftsmanship from unofficial manufacturers. With this in mind, here are a handful of recommendations that won't break the bank, and in some cases, genuinely perform better than Nintendo's alternatives. However, the company knows good partners when it sees them, because a couple of approved collaborations have found their way onto this list. Best cheap Switch 2 controller: PowerA Advantage Wired Controller ($40) PowerA has a habit of getting things done very well without going above and beyond, as most recently proved by its flashy, light-up Xbox controller, which I adore. The PowerA Advantage Wired Controller for Switch 2 — which is officially licensed — is also a lovely bit of kit. The PowerA Advantage is also available in more garish, Nintendo-themed colors, if that's your thing. FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder It's much lighter than standard Switch 1 and 2 Pro Controllers, making it especially great for younger players, and the sticks alone are its strongest draw, combining Hall effect sensors with an obscenely smooth feel. The only thing I really don't like about it is the button placement for +/-, Home, GameChat, and Screenshot, which are lined up in a solid row at the bottom of the front face. There are three things in life guaranteed: death, taxes, and always forgetting the order of these buttons. It must be said that the PowerA recommendation is based on in-store and online availability. Loads of online sellers, particularly those shipping directly from China, are transforming the broader controller market, so you should also check out a few other options from the likes of Mobapad and GameSir, which have updated their firmware for the next generation (and, more often than not, work just as well as PC controllers). Of course, there's always the ultimate meeting-in-the-middle option: using a standard Switch Pro Controller. You can pick them up for about $45; the battery lasts forever, and it's still the best and most comfortable standard console controller from the last generation. However, you won't get the same vibration, nor can it turn your Switch 2 on. Best budget all-in-one Switch 2 case: Snakebyte System Organizer Case S2 ($30) Even though it's a little plain to look at, Snakebyte's System Organizer Case S2 is an absolute masterpiece — it just gets everything right, offering loads of flexibility with its detachable console case in the lid. Snakebyte's range is simple but effective. In the main chamber, there's plenty of room for the docking station, controllers, and wires. It features a solid, scratch-resistant shell that's also water-repellent, alongside a shoulder strap for easy carrying. Considering the official carry case retails for $80 or more (if you can even get one), this option from Snakebyte, for only $30, should be on anyone's shortlist. While you're there, and while it's not a category below because it's a bit niche, Snakebyte's Power Charge S2 is probably the best charging plug if you're a frequent traveller, especially because it comes with a standard U.S. plug and adaptors for Europe, the U.K., and Australia — not bad for $20. Best value compact Switch 2 travel case: Game Traveler Deluxe System Case ($30) As the most crowded market of all, the selection of Switch 2 travel cases depends on one key factor: will this case be in frequent contact with other items, such as a stuffed backpack or carry-on luggage? While some cases may look the part, there's a good chance you might ding your Joy-Cons with lighter protection, which is why I'm leading with something more heavy-duty. Most people will only buy one case for their Switch 2, so if you choose a smaller-sized one, opt for the official Game Traveler Deluxe System Case. Its biggest draw is that it not only protects the screen with a fabric flap, but also positions the console face into the broader case, meaning you don't have to worry about your Joy-Cons being knocked about from the outside. There's more than enough space for a controller and plug, plus 12 games in its weirdly overengineered 'Protection Library.' The Game Traveler Deluxe System Case. If you're a little more careful, and want to spend even less, you can't fault the $20 PowerA Slim Case for Nintendo Switch 2, which certainly looks the part thanks to its official partnership, but it won't stop your jaw from dropping if it hits the ground from a great height, nor does it quite protect the Joy-Con sticks. Best budget Switch 2 handheld protective case: Mumba Blade Series Dockable Case ($30) If you're much more of a handheld Switch 2 fan, but still want the flexibility to dock it and play on the big screen, the Mumba Blade Series case is a no-brainer. It might not look as aesthetically pleasing as other third-party options on the market, such as the refined Spigen Rugged Armor (also $30), but this is far more adaptable. The Mumba Blade Series Dockable Case for Switch 2. Too many cases — however lovely they are — don't fit the dock, but this has some very clever shaping that lets it drop in seamlessly. It also features a quick-release Joy-Con mode that allows you to detach them without needing to remove the entire case. It's sturdy and non-slip, but doesn't overcomplicate itself to such a degree that it can only be used by shovel-handed people like me — it's excellent for smaller palms, and the curves are comfortable enough for longer sessions. Best cheap Joy-Con charging stand: Venom Charging Station for Switch 2 ($23) The Switch 2 charging dock market is a bit crowded, especially for something that's a luxury — after all, you can just slap them back on the console and charge via the console dock. Still, Venom's offering takes up little space on whatever surface you pop them on, while also using their magnets to keep them in place. The Venom Twin Charging Dock for Switch 2. Availability is limited outside of Europe, but there are other good options available, including another dependable stand from Snakebyte with its Twin Charge S2, even if it's your classic flat-lay option. If you're made of money and somehow already own four Joy-Con 2s, don't be seduced by the four-way chargers that look like bodega magazine racks — my friend bought one with the best of intentions, only to immediately put two of his four controllers back on the Switch 2 at the end of a gaming session, rendering his quad stand pretty useless. Are there any recommendations that you have for other affordable Switch 2 accessories? Leave me a comment, or get in touch with me through the links below.
USA Today
4 hours ago
- USA Today
How Trump's personal aesthetic is redefining White House décor: 'I picked it all myself'
The president's personal design choices are clear as the Oval Office and the White House grounds get a makeover. 'It keeps my real estate juices flowing,' he says. WASHINGTON - Donald Trump once said real estate runs in his blood. In the late 1970s, he made a splashy entrance into the New York City real estate scene with the glitzy transformation of the crumbling Hotel Commodore into the Grand Hyatt on Fifth Avenue. When he bought Mar-a-Lago, the South Florida estate built for socialite Marjorie Merriweather Post, he added a 20,000-square-foot ballroom. In Washington, D.C., he turned the city's historic Old Post Office into a luxury hotel. Now 50 years on, he has a new pet project: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Six months since he moved back into the White House, Trump's Oval Office is bathed in a sea of gold and gives a glimpse of his maximalist design approach. Gold-colored appliqués on the fireplace, gilded mirrors and ornate Rococo-style 18th and 19th century dessert stands and flower vases from London and France sit on the mantle. The walls are choc-a-block with paintings of former presidents in heavily ornate gold frames. The Cabinet Room has been outfitted with new ceiling medallions and a grandfather clock. 'I picked it all myself," he said. "I'm very proud of it." There's even a painting of Trump by an 87-year-old artist who said he was surprised to find out his work was being showcased in the West Wing. Meanwhile, Trump has also ripped up the sod in the Rose Garden in favor of a 'gorgeous stone' patio − work paid for by the same nonprofit that funded the Washington Monument's restoration work after a 2011 earthquake − and announced plans to build a ballroom in the White House. He recently erected two 88-foot-tall flagpoles on the south and north lawns of the White House. To be sure, presidents for decades have put their own personal touches on the Oval Office and the White House. President Franklin D. Roosevelt built an indoor swimming pool for physical therapy while coping with polio and President Richard Nixon installed a one-lane bowling alley at the White House's adjacent Old Executive Office Building. The Oval Office often gets new carpet and other furnishings for new presidents. Under Joe Biden, it sported a decidedly muted and understated look. Swedish ivy that has been in the Oval Office for decades graced the fireplace mantle, busts of famous Civil Rights leaders sat on desks and a few gold-framed portraits of past presidents hung on the walls. But for Trump, the work feels far more personal. 'It keeps my real estate juices flowing,' he told a reporter in February. Penchant for gold One common thread that runs through most of the interior redecoration efforts: a penchant for gold. During a recent meeting in the Cabinet Room, Trump waxed poetic about 'gold-leafing' the trims, the need for decorative ceiling medallions around hanging lights and finding the right frames for the new portraits of presidents that adorn the room's walls. Barbara Res, a former vice president at Trump Organization who oversaw construction, has long been familiar with Trump's fascination with the color gold. While working on projects such as the Trump Tower and Plaza Hotel, he had been adamant about incorporating polished bronze and brass which can give the appearance of gold, she said. Public areas such as atriums, ballrooms and restaurants were awash with polished bronze or brass on door frames, railings, elevators and ceilings. 'He used the word 'class' a lot, and it was a high-class thing for him,' Res told USA TODAY. 'It conveyed an illusion of taste and wealth, and that's why he wanted to gild everything.' For his Trump Tower triplex apartment in the early 80s, he hired the famed design veteran Angelo Donghia to do up the place. Taking into consideration Trump's favorite color and after trying to reason with him ("that's the worst thing you can do with Donald," said Res), Donghia introduced subtle gold touches throughout. 'It wasn't normal, but it was almost normal,' Res said with a laugh. Trump's sensibility for 'highly polished metals' went into overdrive after he visited Russia in the late 1980s, touring such places as the Hermitage State Museum and the Winter Palace, Res said. 'He came back, and he changed everything,' she said. 'He hired a guy who was a decorator for the high-roller suites in casinos. They have a lot of gold and mirrors everywhere.' After the apartment was done, Res, who then worked in the 58-story Midtown Manhattan building, said Trump brought her up to show her the remodeled place and asked her what she thought of it. 'I said 'how can you sleep here?,' she said. 'He was highly insulted by it.' Trump has always had an eye for design details. On his recent presidential visit to Qatar, he admired the white marble in a palace, saying it was 'very hard to buy.' 'As a construction person…this is perfect marble. This is what they call 'perfecto',' he said. Decorating the White House Now, as commander-in-chief, Trump has access to the White House Vault. A treasure trove of silver and bronze gilded objects he may have marveled at in palaces and museums around the world is now at his disposal. And he is not wasting his chance to play decorator. During the June Cabinet meeting, he said he had been spending a lot of time there, scooping up pieces he might call perfecto. 'The vaults are where we have a lot of great pictures and artwork,' he said, before offering insights into his obsession with right-sized and right-looking frames. 'I'm a frame person. Sometimes, I like frames more than I like the pictures,' he said. During Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to the White House in May, Trump sought to highlight his efforts. 'You see the new and improved Oval Office as it becomes more and more beautiful with love,' he said. 'You know, we handle it with great love and 24 karat gold.' Other than gold, the president also favors patriotic touches as design flourishes. A copy of the Declaration of Independence occupies pride of place in the Oval Office, placed behind two blue velvet curtains that hang from a gold-colored rod. There are also some bright and cheerful-looking design elements such as colorful military campaign ribbons on the flags. A painting of Trump flanked by fellow Republican presidents Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan hangs in the corridor close to the Oval Office by artist Dick Bobnick. When USA TODAY tracked down Bobnick, the 87-year-old artist based in Burnsville, Minnesota, said he had no idea his work was gracing the walls of the West Wing. He said he'd sent a photo print to the White House but never heard back. The artist, who is a Trump supporter, said he wanted to portray 'three of the strongest, most influential presidents this country has ever had at some of the most tumultuous times.' Bobnick, who has never visited Washington D.C., said he was 'flattered' the print had made an impression. 'I still have the original,' he said. Trump also believes the White House grounds are in need for improvement. The installation of the flagpoles on the White House lawns in June cost about $50,000 each, which Trump said he'd paid for himself. Congress gives every new president an allowance of $100,000 to refurbish the private residence and the Oval Office, for things such as furnishings and curtains. Work is currently in progress on the Rose Garden, which is located just outside the Oval Office, and where bilateral meetings with world leaders and news conferences are often held. The manicured lawn was ripped up to make way for a stone patio, like the one in Mar-a-Lago. Trump said he reached the decision after watching women in high heels at events struggling on the muddy lawn. The foliage, including the 200 rose bushes planted during a 2020 renovation overseen by First lady Melania Trump, will not be disturbed. "President Trump is a builder at heart, and he wants to help make the White House as exceptional as possible for generations of Americans to come," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told USA TODAY. The Rose Garden project, which is slated for completion in August, is funded by the Trust for the National Mall, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that has sponsored more than $75 million in restoration projects with the National Park Service since 2007. Some projects they have led include $22 million for the design and construction of the U.S. Park Police Horse Stables and Education Center on the National Mall in 2023 and a $7.5 million restoration of the Washington Monument after a 2011 earthquake. Julie Moore, a spokesperson for the nonprofit, said it accepts private donations to support the National Park Service's projects at the White House gardens not supported by federal funding. Moore said the project will not use taxpayer dollars but declined to name donors saying they have chosen to remain anonymous. Moore said the funds for the project had already been secured. A White House ballroom? Trump's next project, if it gets off the ground, promises be a grand one — and one that he has, offered to pay for himself. Trump first floated the idea for a ballroom, like the one in Mar-a-Lago, during his first run for president in 2016. The Obama administration confirmed to USA TODAY in 2016 that Trump had offered to spend $100 million on a new White House ballroom, but that the offer was quickly rejected. Back then, Trump derided White House events for foreign dignitaries held in tents, saying that was an inappropriate way to entertain them. State dinners are generally held in the East Room, which at 3,000 square feet is the biggest of the state rooms and the only one that runs the entire width of the executive mansion. It's also where dances, receptions, concerts and news conferences are held. During an executive signing in the East Room in February, Trump recalled his offers to both Obama and Biden. 'This was going to be the reception room,' he said referring to his idea for a revamped East Room that would have served as the entrance to the ballroom he proposed. He said the East Room felt "too crowded." In June, Trump announced in a Truth Social post that he had 'inspected" the site, which according to a White House official, is located on the east side of the White House. Trump also highlighted his construction and real estate credentials in the post, saying no president before him had "any knowledge or experience in doing such things." Leavitt said "discussions about how to execute this plan (for a ballroom) are ongoing." Trump's day job may have changed to more weighty subjects, but passion projects from his former life are still what bring him joy, he recently mused on Truth Social. "These are the 'fun' projects I do while thinking about the World Economy, the United States, China, Russia, and lots of other Countries, places, and events," he wrote. Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X @SwapnaVenugopal
