1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

I am writing as a concerned citizen to express serious objection and worry over the recent demolition of the East Wing of the White House. Reports indicate that the structure was torn down in October 2025 to make way for a new ballroom project — and that this work proceeded without the usual public review or proper permitting process. CBS News +4 The Guardian +4 Politico +4 The White House has asserted that approval was not required for the demolition phase — only for subsequent vertical construction. CBS News +2 Northwest Public Broadcasting +2 However, historic preservation groups such as the National Trust for Historic Preservation argue that public review under laws like the National Historic Preservation Act and oversight by the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) should not have been bypassed. CBS News +1 This raises several troubling questions: Why was a historically significant portion of our national landmark altered without visible adherence to normal review and permitting protocols? What precedent does this set for future changes to federal property and historic buildings? What role should Congress, oversight agencies, or the public have in ensuring transparency and accountability for such projects? Public trust depends on our institutions following the rule of law, not acting unilaterally without checks or review. When an iconic structure like the East Wing — part of the national heritage of the Executive Branch — is demolished or radically altered without clear public process, it undermines both historic preservation and democratic accountability. I urge you to take the following actions: Request a full briefing from the administration on the planning, permitting, and review process that was followed (or not followed) in this project, and to share that information with Congress and the public. Support legislation, oversight hearings, or other mechanisms to ensure that any major federal property renovations or demolitions comply with applicable historic preservation statutes and planning review. Promote transparency by urging that future projects of this magnitude provide for public comment, proper review by oversight bodies, and clear documentation of funding, donors, and approvals. Thank you for your service, and I hope you will act to protect not only our historic landmarks but the processes that give meaning to public trust and accountability.