Donald Trump is set to receive $22 million in a YouTube settlement after his suspension in 2021. Learn how he plans to use the money for his White House Ballroom project.
Donald Trump is set to receive a staggering $22 million from a YouTube settlement following his suspension from the platform after the January 6 insurrection. The lawsuit, filed by Trump alongside other plaintiffs, was settled for $24.5 million, with $22 million allocated to Trump and $2.5 million going to other parties involved.
The money from the settlement will be placed in an entity known as the Trust for the National Mall, which is exempt from taxes. Despite the immense payout, Trump has grand plans for the funds, which are set to go toward the construction of a White House Ballroom—a project he has been vocal about in recent media appearances.
YouTube Suspension and Settlement Details
The lawsuit stemmed from Trump’s suspension from YouTube after the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021, where his supporters stormed the US Capitol building in an attempt to overturn the 2020 election results. The chaotic scene included the erection of makeshift gallows and a supporter carrying a Confederate flag inside the building.
YouTube suspended Trump’s account in the aftermath of the event, citing the risk of incitement of further violence. His account was eventually reinstated in 2023, just ahead of the 2024 election, so that voters could hear from major national candidates.
The settlement comes after a series of legal battles for Trump regarding social media suspensions. The $22 million YouTube payout follows similar settlements with other companies: Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram) donated $22 million to Trump’s presidential library and paid $3 million in legal fees in January 2023. Additionally, X (formerly Twitter), owned by Elon Musk, reportedly paid Trump $10 million in February 2023 to settle a lawsuit.
The White House Ballroom Project
With his new financial windfall, Trump has plans to use the $22 million for a White House Ballroom project, part of a larger $200 million venture. Known for his extravagant tastes, Trump’s vision for the ballroom is set to be a lavish affair, with some describing his taste in décor as “if King Midas walked into the Palace of Versailles and sneezed.”
This ambitious project is part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to leave a lasting imprint on American politics and culture, with the White House Ballroom potentially becoming a symbol of his legacy.
A Continued Legal and Financial Battle
The settlement with YouTube is just one piece of a larger legal and financial puzzle for Trump, who has faced numerous legal challenges following the events of January 6. Despite these challenges, he continues to press forward with his political and personal projects, including the proposed ballroom and other ventures aimed at expanding his influence.
