White House Ballroom Construction Sparks Controversy

The White House has begun demolishing part of the East Wing to construct a massive 90,000-square-foot ballroom for President Trump, sparking controversy. The project has not yet received approval from the National Capital Planning Commission amid a government shutdown, raising questions about procedural compliance and plans for completion by 2029.

The White House commenced demolition of the East Wing, traditionally the first lady's base of operations, to make way for President Donald Trump's new ballroom. The Washington Post captured the dramatic transformation, showcasing heavy machinery dismantling the wing's façade.

Initial site preparations, including tree clearing, began in September. Despite the demolition, White House officials assert that approval from the National Capital Planning Commission is only needed for new construction, not for tearing down structures.

However, the commission is closed due to the government shutdown, and it's unclear if the ballroom plans were submitted for review. President Trump aims to complete the 999-person capacity ballroom by January 2029, justifying the expansion by citing the East Room's inadequate size.

(With inputs from agencies.)