In stunning images, construction crews are seen demolishing a section of the White House to make space for Donald Trump’s extravagant ballroom, estimated to cost $250 million (£185 million). The US President assured that the new suite, intended for state dinners and formal functions, would not disrupt the current structure. Nonetheless, a significant portion of the East Wing is currently being torn down as part of the endeavor.
Heavy machinery is shown dismantling the historic structure that has been part of the White House for over a century. The sound of banging and crashing resonates as construction equipment removes sections of the walls, observed by onlooking journalists.
After footage of the demolition circulated on social media platform X, Trump reiterated his support for the project, stating that the East Wing is being upgraded separately from the main White House building and will be more stunning upon completion. This aligns with earlier statements made by his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, who emphasized the modernization of the East Wing rather than its complete demolition.
Despite initial intentions for modernization, the East Wing appears nearly entirely demolished as Trump aims to construct a lavish 25,000 square feet ballroom, promising to maintain the heritage of the existing structure. However, recent modifications to the official residence, including ostentatious decorations likened to “Versailles meets Vegas,” have sparked criticism.
The funding for the new ballroom is expected to come from private sources, with Trump and companies like Apple, Google, Lockheed Martin, and T-Mobile contributing. The East Wing, originally built in 1902 under President Theodore Roosevelt, has undergone various expansions and alterations over the years, including the addition of a second story in 1942 to accommodate offices for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and her team.
During a recent visit to the construction site, Trump informed donors that the East Wing would be entirely replaced by the new ballroom. Despite ongoing construction, the president acknowledged the project while hosting Louisiana State baseball teams at the White House.
For the latest news updates, make Daily Mirror your ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News.
