Demolition of White House East Wing Nears Completion as Ballroom Project Advances
The East Wing of the White House has nearly been entirely demolished, according to recent images, as US President Donald Trump accelerates plans for a new ballroom, reports BritPanorama.
Photographs from the Associated Press depict extensive demolition reaching close to the main building and leaving significant debris in its wake. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt assured reporters on Thursday that the ballroom project is progressing transparently, urging them to “trust the process.”
Leavitt highlighted that the initial plans presented by the administration included detailed renderings of the ballroom, which Trump had instructed her to reveal publicly. She acknowledged that, like many construction projects, changes are inevitable. “We’ll continue to keep you apprised of all of those changes, but just trust the process,” she said.
Leavitt appeared to recognize evolving demolition plans, noting that the East Wing was originally slated for modernization. The shift in plans, according to her statement, followed advice from architects and construction experts, confirming the necessity of the current phase to ensure a long-lasting and stable structure.
The demolished areas include not only the East Wing but also the East Colonnade, which connected it to the main building and housed the offices of First Ladies for decades. Leavitt stated that historical components, such as elements from Rosalynn Carter’s original office, have been preserved for future use under the supervision of the White House Executive Residence and the National Park Service.
In various announcements, the East Colonnade was recognized for its historical significance, featuring notable architectural details and housing the family movie theatre since the early 20th century. Photos also reveal damage to the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, with landscaping and plantings disturbed by the ongoing construction works.
During a recent dinner with contributors to the ballroom project, Trump emphasized the demolition, saying, “We collapse that over the next few days, it’s going to be demolished. Everything out there is coming down, and we’re replacing it with one of the most beautiful ballrooms that you’ve ever seen.”
