The White House has confirmed that the entire East Wing is being demolished to make way for President Trump’s massive new ballroom, a project now described as far larger than initially planned.
Officials say the demolition is expected to be completed by the end of the week, marking one of the most significant White House renovations in decades.
A Project Bigger Than Promised
The ballroom is set to measure around 90,000 square feet—making it larger than the main 55,000-square-foot residence itself.
When first announced, the president said the ballroom would be constructed “near” the White House without touching the historic building.
Now, the administration says it was determined to be cheaper and more structurally sound to rebuild the East Wing entirely rather than add on to it.
Funding and Controversy
The project is expected to cost between $200 and $250 million, financed through private donations and a personal contribution from the president.
The White House has not released a full list of donors, prompting questions about transparency and ethics.
Officials maintain that all donations are legal and that the ballroom will stand as a long-term addition for future administrations.
Historic Concerns and Preservation
The East Wing—home to the Office of the First Lady and several key departments—has been fully vacated, with staff relocated elsewhere on the White House grounds.
Preservation groups have voiced strong opposition, arguing the construction could permanently alter the architectural balance of the building. They’ve urged the administration to pause demolition until all required public review processes take place.
To preserve history, the White House Historical Association has completed digital scans and photographs of the East Wing, and historical artifacts have been safely stored under the supervision of the National Park Service.
Security and Construction Details
A higher, seven-foot fence now surrounds the site as demolition crews work behind closed gates.
The administration says the new structure will include upgraded security measures and modern facilities that reflect both functionality and aesthetics.
Supporters and Critics Speak Out
Critics, including lawmakers and preservation advocates, have accused the administration of disrespecting American heritage.
Supporters, however, say the expansion is a “bold and necessary improvement” that continues a long tradition of presidents modernizing the White House.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the project in a televised appearance, saying, “He’s the builder-in-chief. Construction is what he does best, and at the end of the process, the White House will be more modern and beautiful than ever.”
Ongoing Developments
Officials say formal project plans will still be submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission in the coming weeks.
For now, heavy machinery continues to clear the East Wing grounds as Washington watches one of the most dramatic transformations of the White House in modern history.
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