The White House initiated the deconstruction of a section of the East Wing on Monday to make room for a new $250 million ballroom intended for President Donald Trump. Despite lacking approval from the federal agency overseeing such projects, construction equipment was seen demolishing parts of the East Wing structure, with debris scattered around the area. President Trump mentioned the construction work during a gathering with college baseball champions, highlighting that the project had just commenced.
The National Capital Planning Commission, responsible for approving construction and major renovations in Washington, has not yet given the green light for the White House’s ambitious construction endeavor. It remains uncertain if the ballroom plans have been submitted to the commission for review, as there has been no response from the White House, compounded by the closure of the commission’s offices due to the government shutdown.
Critics, including Democratic congress member Suzan DelBene, have condemned the renovation, suggesting that the President’s focus on building a lavish ballroom reflects misplaced priorities over pressing national issues. The project aims to modernize and renovate the East Wing offices, with assurances that the existing structure will be respected and preserved during the construction process.
President Trump has defended the need for a grand ballroom at the White House, citing historical precedent and the inadequate capacity of the current East Room. The project, touted as the most significant alteration to the Executive Mansion since 1948, is being funded through private donations from various companies and individuals. The construction is set to be completed before the end of Trump’s term in 2029, with Carrier Global Corp. among the companies contributing to the project by donating an energy-efficient HVAC system for the ballroom.
