White House East Wing Set for Demolition Soon

Watch as Parts of White House East Wing Torn Down

US President Donald Trump has announced the demolition of the White House East Wing to make way for a new $250 million ballroom. Crews started tearing down sections of the structure on Monday, with plans to complete the demolition by the weekend, according to two administration officials.

The construction project, a significant expansion announced earlier this summer, will not interfere with the current building, as stated by Trump. He defended the transparency of the project, claiming his administration has been more transparent than any before.

The White House, the historic residence of US presidents for two centuries, saw the construction of the East Wing in 1902, last modified in 1942. This section houses offices for the first lady, staff, meetings, and special events.

Trump highlighted the numerous changes the building has undergone over the years, emphasizing the need for renovations that have been desired for over a century. The project is privately funded by Trump and his donors, with the military also involved.

Construction work on the new ballroom began on Monday, as confirmed by the president in a social media post. Trump clarified that the East Wing, although attached to the main structure, is a separate entity from the White House.

The decision to demolish the entire East Wing was made during the planning process to modernize security and technology, according to Trump administration officials. This move has faced criticism, with the National Trust for Historic Preservation expressing deep concerns and calling for a public review of the project. Democrats, including Hillary Clinton, have also voiced opposition to the renovation.