Overview
- Satellite and ground images taken Oct. 23–24 show the East Wing fully demolished after work began Oct. 20, closing the traditional visitor entrance and tour access.
- The planned structure is roughly 90,000 square feet with a reported budget near $300 million, which the White House says will be covered by the president and private donors rather than taxpayers.
- Publicly released donor lists include major technology and defense companies, intensifying questions about potential influence as Democrats seek details on amounts and vetting.
- Senators led by Elizabeth Warren sent a letter to the National Park Service and the Trust for the National Mall requesting a full accounting of donors, contributions, and contracting steps.
- The White House says demolition required no prior submission and that construction plans will be sent later to the National Capital Planning Commission, as preservation groups, a Virginia couple, and critics challenge the process and the demolition contractor faces backlash.