Stop The White House Demolition Now

Project Underway Without Full Review Recent photos and news reports show that demolition crews have started tearing down sections of the East Wing of the White House for a 90,000-square-foot private ballroom. This work began before approvals were complete — a clear violation of normal review processes and an immediate threat to the nation’s most important public building. The White House Is America’s Symbol The White House is more than a residence — it is central to American history and has housed almost every U.S. President. Allowing major structural changes without public input damages the trust Americans place in their government and weakens national pride. Heritage, Preservation, And Public Accountability Historic-preservation experts warn that altering the White House without proper oversight undermines the laws and traditions that protect America’s cultural heritage. Congress must affirm that even the president is subject to these rules and protect the building for future generations. Lack Of Transparency On Funding Reports say the ballroom project costs between 200 and 250 million dollars and is being paid for by private donors. Congress must require full disclosure of who these donors are, what they are funding, and whether they expect favors in return. Security And Operational Risks The East Wing connects to essential security and emergency areas. Fast demolition and construction, carried out privately and without full review, could endanger White House operations and staff safety. Misleading Public Assurances Officials previously claimed that no part of the White House would be demolished. Yet current evidence shows demolition underway. Congress must determine who authorized the change and why the public was told otherwise. Congress Must Act Now Congress must: • Require advance submission of any White House construction plans to oversight commissions. • Mandate a public posting period and hearing before work begins. • Prohibit demolition or major site work until review is complete. • Require full donor disclosure and confirm no conflicts of interest. • Provide legal authority to pause or stop work that violates these rules. Immediate Oversight Action I urge you to hold hearings with the National Capital Planning Commission, the National Park Service, security agencies, and preservation experts. Require release of all approval documents, donor contracts, and construction timelines so the public knows the full story. A Stand For The People The White House belongs to all Americans. Please take a public stand, call for an immediate pause on demolition, and support legislation that protects the People’s House from private or political misuse.