Interior Department Disputes Claim That East Wing Debris Has Toxic Metals

A report commissioned by the National Park Service and prepared by Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. says White House debris removal began in October 2025.

A pile of debris is seen in the background as Roman Sandoli (R) prepares to putt at the East Potomac Golf Course in Washington on May 3, 2026. Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP Photo

The Interior Department has disputed claims that debris from the White House East Wing contains hazardous materials.

Interior spokesperson Katie Martin said on May 5 that the soil had undergone repeated testing by multiple parties and met all legal safety standards. While declining to comment on ongoing litigation, she emphasized that proper procedures were followed to ensure that the material posed no risk to the public.