Biltmore makes a 10,000 square footer look like a tiny cottage by comparison. I can’t imagine what drove George Vanderbilt to think he needed it other than monumental ego.
A form of American Aristocracy in the DNA - a longing to be the King of their Domain.
Not a problem if wealth is earned and opulence is the result. Living large should not be at the expense of tax-payers being forced to subsidize such a lifestyle for elected officials. They are supposed to be our servants!!!