WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump showcased the new helicopter landing pad at the White House on Monday, amidst ongoing controversy regarding media access. Major television networks refrained from covering the event in protest of CNN's ban from the grounds.
During the ceremony, which took place under light rain, Trump used oversized gold scissors to cut a ribbon in red, white, and blue. He greeted officials and members of the construction crew, aiming to convey a sense of normalcy. However, the sound of his waiting helicopter drowned out any remarks he made. Trump did not respond to reporters' questions before boarding Marine One for a flight to New York, but he posted on social media about the event, stating, "We are just leaving the White House Lawn on the maiden voyage from the newly built, and very beautiful, Heliport!"
CNN, MS Now, and Politico have filed lawsuits following Trump's announcement on Friday that they would be barred from covering the White House, marking a continuation of his efforts to limit coverage he deems unfavorable.
Typically, CNN participates in a rotation with four other networks to provide pooled footage of White House events. When CNN was prohibited from attending the ceremony, ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News collectively decided to skip the event.
Trump has previously highlighted the new helipad, which features extensive granite and a large presidential seal, claiming it would impress Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is scheduled to visit on Wednesday. This focus on the helipad comes as Trump also seeks to bolster Republican control in the upcoming midterm elections while facing criticism for limiting media access.
The First Amendment implications of restricting media access have overshadowed the helipad's unveiling and Trump's departure for the United Nations General Assembly, which begins on Tuesday.
Throughout his presidency, Trump has emphasized construction projects, even as his administration grapples with challenges such as the ongoing conflict in Iran. His approval ratings have declined as voters express concerns over inflation and economic stability ahead of the election.
Trump has made claims about the durability of the granite used for the helipad, previously asserting that renovations to the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool would last a century, despite issues with the recent work.
The helipad project commenced in June, replacing the original Tennessee flagstone with black granite and refurbishing the walkway leading to the White House. Trump has stated that the project would be privately funded, estimating costs up to $6 million, although additional expenses have complicated the financial picture.
The South Lawn has seen significant construction activity this year, including the installation of a temporary arena for a UFC event. Trump has indicated that Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, would cover the costs of the helipad due to the new helicopters' requirements. In his social media post, Trump expressed gratitude to Lockheed Martin's CEO.
Some of Trump's projects have involved public funding, despite initial claims of private financing. For example, when the East Wing was demolished for a ballroom, the administration later sought substantial funding from Congress for security upgrades.