Overview
- The Atlantic frames last month’s demolition as a rupture with 125 years of expert consultation that guided Washington’s civic design.
- This week the president dismissed the entire Commission of Fine Arts, while his appointees now dominate the National Capital Planning Commission.
- Critics say the East Wing came down before customary submissions and public review, underscoring the weakness of nonbinding oversight.
- A lawsuit by Charles and Judith Voorhees challenges the process, alleging required NCPC and preservation reviews were bypassed.
- Renderings depict a classically styled ballroom that critics argue would dwarf the mansion, as observers note the president is pushing other grandiose projects in the capital.