Construction crews have begun demolishing parts of the White House’s East Wing to make way for a new ballroom commissioned by US President Donald Trump. On Monday, workers were seen tearing down sections of the covered entryway and removing large windows, marking the start of what Trump described as a “full modernisation” of the East Wing.
Trump announced earlier this year that the $250 million project would add a grand ballroom “near” the existing building but would not alter the White House itself. He said the new structure would “pay total respect” to the historic building, calling it his favourite place in the world. According to Trump, the project is being privately funded by what he described as “many generous patriots,” though no donor names have been made public.
The East Wing, originally built in 1902 and last renovated in 1942, has long housed offices and the First Lady’s staff. On Monday, large cranes and construction machinery adorned with American flags could be seen removing sections of its southern facade. From a distance, metal cables and concrete rubble were visible as crews worked to dismantle the outer structure.
While presidents have wide authority to renovate the White House, the move has sparked controversy among historians and preservation groups. Robert K Sutton, a former chief historian with the National Park Service, said the lack of a transparent review process was “highly inappropriate.” The White House and its surrounding parklands fall under the National Park Service’s jurisdiction, which typically requires detailed plans and cost reviews before major alterations are approved.