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Trump Orders Rapid Demolition of White House East Wing for Massive Ballroom

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East Wing Razed Within Days Under Presidential Directive The demolition crew reduced the 123‑year‑old East Wing to rubble in a matter of days, bypassing independent preservationist approval. Officials say private donors will foot the bill, though cost estimates have risen from roughly $200 million to about $400 million. The swift action reflects a unilateral approach championed by the president [1].

Proposed Ballroom Spans Nearly 90,000 Square Feet Trump promotes a ballroom nearly 90,000 sq ft, roughly four stories tall, intended to replace temporary tents for large events. The donor‑funded project pushes total expenses toward the $400 million mark, double earlier projections. Its scale would dwarf the existing White House ballroom [1].

Broader Cultural Overhaul Extends Beyond White House Simultaneously, the administration orders reviews at the Smithsonian to drop “divisive narratives,” renames the United States Institute of Peace, and installs Trump appointees at the Kennedy Center who seek a name change and programming shift. An “American Arch” near Washington is floated as a birth‑celebration, with hints it may serve the president’s personal legacy [1].

Political Reactions Split Along Party Lines Democrats denounce the demolition and ballroom as vanity projects that jeopardize historic legitimacy, while many Republicans defend the classical aesthetic and modernization goals. Lawmakers weigh the moves against election‑year concerns such as health care and the economy, highlighting partisan divides over cultural policy [1].

Funding Model Relies on Private Donors Amid Escalating Costs The administration emphasizes that private donors will cover the entire $200‑$400 million cost range, linking the venture to cash‑funded symbolism like the proposed arch and potential currency ideas. Critics argue the reliance on donor money underscores personal branding of national symbols [1].

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