Why are you destroying the White House?

The American people are writing to demand full accountability and a clear explanation for the wholly unacceptable destruction and alteration of part of the White House. Reports indicate that demolition has already begun on the East Wing of the White House in order to build a multi-million-dollar ballroom for which there appears to be no convincing public justification. This is a formal demand that you immediately answer the following questions, and that Congress confronts and investigates this matter now: 1. On what legal basis was the partial demolition of the East Wing authorized? The public is entitled to know whether the proper statutory procedures were followed before such a significant alteration to a national landmark. Under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), federal agencies must evaluate impacts on historic properties and follow the so-called Section 106 review process. Furthermore, under federal law, any willful destruction or depredation of property of the United States is a crime: 18 U.S.C. § 1361 prohibits one who “willfully injures or commits any depredation against any property of the United States…” Did the administration obtain all required reviews, approvals, and legal authorizations prior to commencing demolition? If not, how does the administration justify proceeding anyway? 2. Why is the People’s House being transformed into what appears to be a vanity project rather than a public-purpose renovation? Tax-payers, visitors, and the nation deserve to know why a space of this magnitude and cost (reported at $200-250 million) is being built when the existing facilities serve their purpose. What analyses were conducted to justify the cost, scope, and public benefit of this project? Why was it deemed necessary to demolish parts of a historic wing rather than adapt or renovate existing space more prudently? 3. Has Congress been fully briefed, and are you prepared to provide full documentation and oversight? Given the magnitude and historic significance of the structure, and the reported lack of approval from the and other oversight bodies, it is imperative that Congress exercise its oversight duty. We demand that Congress summon the relevant administration officials and demand full transparency on all contracts, donor disclosures, cost breakdowns, timeline documents, historic-preservation reviews, and scope of demolition/renovation. Mr. President and Members of Congress: the American people are tired of opaque processes, one-sided decision-making, and projects that benefit personal legacy rather than public service. The White House is not a playground for self-aggrandizement. It is a symbol of our democracy, our history, and our collective future. If the law was followed, show us the proof. If not, you must accept accountability now. Congress must act. The people are watching. We will not accept silence, spin, or delay.