A demolition crew has begun removing the facade of the East Wing of the White House to make way for a new ballroom proposed by former President Donald Trump. This significant renovation project commenced on October 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The project has faced criticism and raised questions regarding the transparency of the administration’s actions.
Details of the Demolition
The demolition is expected to finish within two weeks, with the entire East Wing being modified to accommodate the new ballroom. President Trump announced that he had broken ground on the project, revealing that the extent of the demolition may not have been fully communicated to the public initially.
Controversial Changes to Historic Space
The East Wing, which houses the offices of the First Lady and her staff, was last renovated in 1942 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The scope of the changes under Trump’s administration is unprecedented in recent decades.
- Demolition Started: October 21, 2025
- Estimated Completion: Within two weeks from start
- Initial Project Cost: $200 million (now estimated at $300 million)
- Proposed Ballroom Size: 90,000 square feet
- Current Size of the White House: 55,000 square feet
Response from Lawmakers
The decision to demolish part of the White House has sparked backlash, particularly from Democratic lawmakers. Senator Angus King labeled the actions as a “desecration” of the historic building, emphasizing the importance of preserving American heritage. Critics have accused the Trump administration of not adhering to proper protocols.
Oversight and Planning Review
The White House has stated that plans for the ballroom construction will be submitted for review to the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), although demolition has already begun. Will Scharf, the chair of the NCPC and an aide to Trump, asserted his ability to weigh in objectively on the project despite his dual roles.
Community Concerns
Public reaction has been mixed, with some residents expressing outrage. Local resident Sarah Kavanagh stated her dismay by likening the situation to a memorial for the historic East Wing. Additionally, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has urged the administration to halt demolition until the planning review concludes.
The review by the NCPC is anticipated to take approximately three months, during which two to three public meetings will be held to gather community feedback. Scharf has indicated that while the review can sometimes move quickly, other projects may take longer depending on various factors.
As the demolition progresses, the potential impacts on the White House’s historical integrity remain a focal point of discussion among lawmakers and citizens alike.
