Senate rejects amendment to require congressional approval for East Wing ballroom

The amendment was offered to a Republican-led immigration enforcement bill that initially included $220 million for ballroom security costs. That funding was later removed because of opposition and reconciliation rules. The amendment failed by a 53-46 vote. It needed 60 votes to pass.

Earlier amendment also rejected The same seven senators broke with their party on a separate amendment that sought to block creation of a Justice Department fund described as an "anti-weaponization" measure. One senator who had already voted received consent to change position after the tally closed.

The office of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer issued a statement criticizing the project and calling for congressional oversight of any spending.