Fox News viewers were taken aback after Donald Trump admitted during an interview on The Ingraham Angle that the demolition of the White House’s East Wing “didn’t have to happen.” The remark comes weeks after a large portion of the historic structure was torn down to make way for his 90,000-square-foot, $300 million ballroom.
The demolition drew criticism last month because Trump had earlier assured Americans that the original East Wing would not be disturbed during the construction. The wing previously housed the First Lady’s offices and staff.
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Admission sparks fresh wave of public outrage
Speaking to Laura Ingraham, the President said, “I could have built the ballroom around it, but it would not have been - we’re building one of the greatest ballrooms in the world.” His comment triggered renewed anger online, with many viewers arguing that the destruction of the historic space was avoidable.
Trump’s broader White House redesign has included paving over Jackie Kennedy’s rose garden, adding gold decals to interior walls and removing several commemorative trees. The ballroom, funded by private donors, is expected to be completed before the end of his term.
As per a report by Irish Star, reactions poured in on X, with one viewer writing, “The American people will never forgive you for destroying the East Wing of the People’s House.” Another user criticised him for breaking his earlier promise, saying, “You said you wouldn’t touch an inch of the East Wing, and then you demolished the entire East Wing.”
A third comment read, “It’s not your house. It’s the People’s House,” while another viewer compared his changes to treating the White House “like one of your tacky hotels.” Another user added, “This is what happens with no oversight or accountability.”
Trump has not responded to the backlash over the admission.
