‘Entirety’ of East Wing to be ‘modernized’ to build Trump ballroom: White House official

The demolition work at the White House continued on Wednesday to pave the way for President Donald Trump’s ambitious $250 million ballroom project. However, it has been revealed that the renovation is much more extensive than initially disclosed.

Contrary to Trump’s previous assertion in July that the ballroom would not affect the existing structure, a White House official confirmed to ABC News that the entire East Wing is undergoing modernization. This includes areas like the first lady’s office and the White House military office.

The demolition was first reported by The Washington Post, which published recent images showing bulldozers tearing down a significant portion of the East Wing. A new seven-foot fence has been erected to shield the demolition from public view.

According to a White House official, the East Wing is being modernized to accommodate the ballroom project and future East Wing facilities. The scope and scale of the project have evolved as the process has unfolded.

Office of the First Lady and other East Wing components have been relocated within the White House complex to facilitate the demolition. The first lady’s office and staff were moved out well in advance of the demolition.

Trump’s vision for a grand ballroom at the White House, inspired by the one at his Mar-a-Lago estate, is well underway. The 90,000-square foot ballroom is expected to be funded by Trump and anonymous donors. However, questions about the funding sources remain unanswered.

Despite earlier assurances that the ballroom would not physically connect to the White House, Trump recently hinted at a direct access from the East Room to the ballroom, suggesting a closer integration than previously indicated.

The construction activities have sparked criticism from various quarters. Former first lady Hillary Clinton criticized Trump for “destroying” the White House, emphasizing that it belongs to the people. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has also expressed concerns about the project’s impact on the historic balance and design of the White House.

The White House defended the renovations, describing the ballroom project as a necessary enhancement that aligns with the tradition of past presidents making improvements to the executive residence. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the criticism as “fake outrage” and emphasized Trump’s expertise in construction.

While the Treasury Department has instructed employees not to share photos of the demolition, Trump remains enthusiastic about the project. Hosting Senate Republicans for lunch in the newly-renovated Rose Garden Club, he expressed his delight at the progress of the ballroom construction.

In conclusion, the White House renovation project has stirred controversy and raised questions about its impact on the historic integrity of the iconic building. Despite the criticism, the construction continues as Trump aims to leave a lasting legacy with the addition of a grand ballroom to the White House.