In October 2025, the White House’s East Wing was demolished, leaving only rubble behind and clearing the way for the president’s ballroom project.
Previously, the largest event space in the White House was the East Room, which had a capacity of around 200 people. For larger events, tents were erected on the South Lawn.
“For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, State Visits, etc.,” Trump wrote on Truth Social in October. “I am honored to be the first President to finally get this much-needed project underway — with zero cost to the American Taxpayer!”
The president has said the project will be funded by private donors, including Big Tech companies and wealthy individuals.
The demolition of the wing, originally added in the early 20th century and expanded in 1942, altered the facade of the president’s mansion and forced the relocation of the first lady’s staff offices.
It was also met with criticism from preservationists, who said the president needed to obtain congressional approval for the project.
“It’s not his house. It’s your house. And he’s destroying it,” former Secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton wrote on X after photos of the demolition emerged.
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