Overview
- President Trump said he could have built the ballroom around the East Wing but chose demolition because the structure "looked like hell" and would have compromised what he calls a world-class venue, reiterating that no government money will be used.
- The project is slated at roughly $250–$300 million for about 90,000 square feet and seating for around 650 people, with the East Wing already torn down in late October to clear the site.
- Asked about reports that First Lady Melania Trump privately raised concerns, Trump said she "loved her little, tiny office" but now thinks the project is "great," and the White House says those offices will be rebuilt within the new construction.
- Michelle Obama criticized the teardown as dismissive of the first lady’s role, while other Democratic figures, including Joe Biden and Chelsea Clinton, have also condemned the plan.
- Public resistance remains significant, with an October YouGov survey cited by The Independent finding 54% opposed to demolishing the East Wing for the ballroom, after Trump initially said the addition would not affect the existing building.