Trump East Wing Demolition Spurs $300M White House Ballroom Controversy

President Trump is constructing a new 90,000-square-foot ballroom at the White House, a project that has sparked significant controversy due to its rising costs and the demolition of the historic East Wing. Initially estimated at $200 million, the cost has now increased to approximately $300 million, with Trump defending the expense and the need to demolish the East Wing to properly build the ballroom. Critics, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation, argue that the ballroom will overwhelm the White House and have raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding private donors funding the project. Despite earlier claims that the ballroom would not interfere with the existing structure, demolition began on the East Wing, which historically housed the first lady's offices and has undergone several renovations since 1902. The administration dismisses the backlash as "manufactured outrage," while opponents highlight ethical concerns and the project's lavish nature amid broader national issues. Trump maintains that the ballroom will be a world-class facility connected to the main building by a glass bridge and insists the construction is necessary for hosting large events more appropriately than past presidents had done using tents on the South Lawn.