WASHINGTON – Heavy machinery has begun tearing into the once-sacred East Wing of the White House, heralding the start of a controversial $250 million project to build a monumental ballroom favoured by Donald Trump.
Crews were seen dismantling the façade just days after Trump reaffirmed his ambition to create the “finest ballroom” in America. The 90,000-square-foot venue is designed to host up to 999 guests and promises sweeping views of the Washington Monument.
Despite earlier assurances that the extension would not affect the historic residence, demolition marks a sharp turn in that narrative — raising alarms among preservationists who warn the project could permanently alter “the People’s House.”
Funding for the venture comes entirely from Trump and private donors, with no taxpayer dollars committed. Yet lawmakers and heritage groups argue that once historic walls come down, restoration is impossible and the symbolic value of America’s executive mansion may be at risk.
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