White House East Wing Demolition Underway for New Ballroom

Fri Oct 24 2025 18:32:17 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

President Trump initiates demolition of historic East Wing as part of his upscale ballroom project, promising no taxpayer cost.

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has commenced the demolition of the East Wing of the White House to make way for a lavish ballroom project. The East Wing, notable for its historical significance and prior roles in state functions and first lady initiatives, will be replaced by a ballroom projected to cost $300 million. Critics and preservationists express concerns over the demolition and lack of public review.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The East Wing of the White House has been entirely demolished as President Donald Trump advances with his plans for a new ballroom, as seen in recent photos from the Associated Press.

The East Wing, a historically significant area where first ladies have shaped initiatives and organized state dinners, now lies in ruins. This two-story structure, which served as a working space for first ladies and their staff, has been demolished to facilitate the construction of a new ballroom that Trump claims will cost $300 million and be twice the size of the original White House.

Trump asserted on Wednesday that preserving the East Wing would have compromised the development of a very, very expensive, beautiful building that has been desired by many presidents over the years.

He stated that me and some friends of mine will finance the ballroom without burdening taxpayers. However, the decision to begin demolition has attracted scrutiny due to the lack of official approval from relevant government agencies overseeing construction on federal property.

Preservationists have voiced their concerns, urging the Trump administration to halt the demolition until the plans for the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom undergo proper public review.