WASHINGTON, Oct 21 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- The White House has begun demolishing part of its East Wing to build a ballroom requested by United States (US) President Donald Trump, according to local media on Monday, reported Xinhua.
"I am pleased to announce that ground has been broken on the White House to build the new, big, beautiful White House Ballroom," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, adding that the ballroom is being "privately funded."
"For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, state visits, etc. I am honoured to be the first President to finally get this much-needed project underway," Trump said.
The president previously said that the construction wouldn't "interfere" with the existing building. It's estimated to cost US$250 million.
The project has drawn harsh criticism from Democrats. California Governor Gavin Newsom posted on social media platform X that Trump's priorities include "bulldozing the White House" instead of reopening the government.
According to the White House, the East Wing was built in 1902 and has undergone numerous renovations and modifications, including the addition of a second floor in 1942.
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