Washington: A major controversy has erupted at the White House after U.S. President Donald Trump initiated construction of a new ‘Ballroom’—a project he has long described as his dream. The move involves demolishing the historic East Wing, which has stood as a part of the presidential complex since 1902.
Trump announced the project through his Truth Social platform, stating that demolition work on the East Wing’s doors, windows, and sections began on Monday. Officials confirmed that the entire building will be demolished by the end of the week. The project, estimated to cost $250 million (approximately Rs 2,000 crore), is being funded through Trump’s personal finances along with contributions from private donors and major American corporations.
BREAKING: Trump has changed his mind and decided to demolish the entire East Wing of the White House, the NYT reports.
How is this even legal?
pic.twitter.com/EVgUWYMoLk— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) October 22, 2025
The proposed ballroom will cover 90,000 square feet and accommodate up to 999 guests. According to Trump, it will serve as a venue for banquets and grand receptions in honor of visiting world leaders. He emphasized that the construction would not burden U.S. taxpayers.
However, the decision has triggered strong criticism from Democratic leaders and preservation groups. The National Trust for Historic Preservation condemned the demolition, urging authorities to halt the project immediately, citing the White House’s status as a national historic landmark. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also criticized the move, posting on X that “the White House isn’t Trump’s house—he’s destroying a national treasure.”