WASHINGTON (AP) — The upcoming demolition of the East Wing of the White House to facilitate the construction of a new 90,000-square-foot ballroom desired by President Donald Trump has ignited fierce debates among lawmakers.
Citing stunning images of the demolition, Democratic lawmakers have expressed deep outrage, framing it as a reckless move that diminishes a historical symbol of the Republic. In contrast, Republicans liken it to previous renovations made during past presidencies, including Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s swimming pool and Barack Obama’s basketball court.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said, The ballroom is going to be glorious,” underscoring his support for the project.
Democrats like Senator Jeff Merkley have incorporated images of the East Wing's destruction into their speeches on the Senate floor, with Merkley suggesting that the demolition represents a broader symbolic decline in respect for government institutions.
“Here we have evidence of the president tearing down a symbol of our Republic and building a symbol that is really a symbol about authoritarian power,” Merkley expressed in condemnation of the project.
Trump has argued that the White House requires a larger entertaining venue, as the current East Room accommodates roughly 200 guests. He has frequently criticized the practice of hosting large events in temporary tents, implying the need for a dedicated space stemming from a personal desire for improvement.
Despite concerns, the White House has affirmed that the ballroom will be privately funded and slated for completion well before the expiration of Trump’s term in January 2029.
The East Wing has been part of the White House since its addition in 1942, introduced to house expanded staff and offices. Its construction was controversial at the time and met with resistance from lawmakers who considered the capital expenditure extravagant during wartime, a sentiment echoed by current Democratic leaders.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump for focusing on “vanity projects like this one,” suggesting the president should concentrate instead on pressing issues like healthcare access for millions of Americans.
Republican senators largely dismissed concerns regarding the East Wing's renovation. Some have commended the construction as evidence of Trump's renowned building expertise, with Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) stating, “What better person would you want to renovate the White House?”
Conversely, Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal articulated his disapproval, emphasizing that previous renovations did not obliterate an entire wing of the White House in such a permanent manner.
As this debate unfolds, key contrasting views on government oversight, historical preservation, and presidential authority continue to emerge, reflecting the division in contemporary U.S. politics.
