1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The White House is owned by the American people. It is on loan to the President for 4 years and, like any tenant, he needs permission to make significant changes. However, President Trump hosted a fundraiser to build a ballroom at the White House DURING this government shutdown—while hundreds of thousands are working without pay and days later, demolition for that ballroom began — even though every federal office that should’ve reviewed it was shut down. What authority allows this to move forward without historical preservation or congressional approval? Who are the donors and what do they expect in return? What precedent does this set for future presidents who will see the White House as a personal asset rather than a piece of American heritage? Who in Congress is providing oversight of this project? Please respond in writing. Additionally, tell Speaker Johnson to swear in duly-elected Adelita Grijalva of Arizona to the House of Representatives.