Trump jokes he won't build a 'big, beautiful' press room because he doesn't want reporters 'comfortable'
President Donald Trump brushed off a question about building a "big, beautiful briefing room" during a crowded White House press event Monday, joking that he had no interest in making life more comfortable for the media.The quip came after Trump recently announced that he and private donors will fund the estimated $200 million cost of a new ballroom at the White House.The exchange took place during a packed White House briefing where Trump addressed multiple issues, including his mobilization of approximately 800 National Guard troops to help the Metropolitan Police Department to tackle crime in the nations capital.The room, filled wall-to-wall with reporters, prompted one journalist to note, "This is the most people weve ever seen in this briefing room."TRUMP JABS MEDIA DURING DC CRIME PRESS CONFERENCE: YOU'RE LIBERAL BUT DON'T WANT TO BE MUGGED AND KILLEDTrump agreed and turned to his "superstar," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, asking, "Is this the largest crowd that youve ever seen?""This is definitely the most packed briefing, and I think all of you would agree," the White House spokeswoman answered. "I think thats why we need to build a ballroom."Brian Glenn, correspondent for Real Americas Voice, piggybacked on her comment, asking Trump, "Youre building a big, beautiful ballroom. Could we build a big, beautiful briefing room? Updated with technology, more seats!""No, I dont want to do that. I dont want you to be comfortable," Trump joked, sparking laughter in the crowd of reporters. "No, I dont want to make life comfortable."CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTUREThe ballroom project is intended to provide a dedicated space for hosting official events, state dinners and large ceremonial gatherings."The White House is currently unable to host major functions honoring world leaders in other countries without having to install a large and unsightly tent approximately 100 yards away from the main building's entrance," Leavitt said last month, adding the new ballroom will be "a much-needed and exquisite addition."The planned 90,000-square-foot addition will accommodate approximately 650 seated guests and will stay true to the classical design of the White House.