Demolition is underway on the White House East Wing as President Donald Trump begins construction on a new US$200-million ballroom, one of the most significant structural changes to the White House in decades.
On October 20, excavators were seen tearing through sections of the East Wing roof and interior. The project, which Trump has called his “big, beautiful White House Ballroom,” will replace the area traditionally housing offices for first ladies.
The 90,000-square-foot (8,360-square-meter) expansion will feature gilded chandeliers, marble floors, and seating for up to 650 guests, more than triple the East Room’s capacity. Funded by Trump and private donors, the project is expected to be completed by 2029. By then, Trump's second term will have ended, and the Constitution's two-term limit means he cannot run for a third.
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