White House Ballroom Project Breaks Ground

The project will be financed without taxpayer money, with completion expected before end of Trump’s term in early 2029.

Work begins on the demolition of a part of the East Wing of the White House on Oct. 20, 2025, in Washington, before construction of a new ballroom. Evan Vucci/AP Photo

Demolition work on the White House East Wing commenced on Oct. 20 to make way for President Donald Trump’s ballroom project, with parts of the wing already torn down.

Built in 1902 and expanded with a second story in 1942, the East Wing houses the office of the first lady. Trump stated on Truth Social on Oct. 20 that it will be “fully modernized” as part of the ballroom construction process.