The East Wing of the White House started the demolition of part of the building on Monday (October 20th) to kick off President Trump’s new banquet hall project. He had previously stated that the project would not affect the existing landmarks.
Trump announced on his social media platform “Truth Social”: “I am excited to announce that ground has been broken on the construction of this new, large, and beautiful White House banquet hall on the premises of the White House. As part of this process, the East Wing will be completely separated from the main White House and undergo a full modernization, making it more beautiful than ever before when completed!”
“For over 150 years, every president has dreamed of having a banquet hall at the White House to host grand gatherings, state visits, and other events for guests. I am honored to be the first president to finally initiate this much-needed project – all without spending a single dime of American taxpayers’ money!” he continued, “This White House banquet hall is being constructed through the generous contributions of many patriots, great American companies, and my personal funding. This banquet hall will be enjoyed by generations to come!”
The White House banquet hall that Trump plans to expand is expected to cost $200 million and cover an area of 90,000 square feet. According to White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt’s announcement at the end of July regarding this decision, the new banquet hall will seat 650 people, eliminating the need for the White House to set up “huge and unsightly tents” for state banquets and other large events in the future.
The office of First Lady Melania Trump is currently located in the East Wing of the White House, and during the construction period, the offices in that area will be temporarily relocated.
Trump has expressed his desire in the past to have a larger banquet hall within the presidential residence to host formal events.
The White House, established in 1800, the construction of the new banquet hall may become the largest project since President Harry S. Truman’s comprehensive renovation of the White House in 1952.
Former US presidents usually use the current White House State Dining Room to host events, and for larger gatherings, they utilize the larger East Room, sometimes setting up tents on the South Lawn temporarily for hosting grand dinners.