Summary
President Donald Trump plans to demolish the White House East Wing to build a new ballroom. Although the White House is exempt from certain historic preservation rules, past presidents often followed these guidelines voluntarily. Some groups and individuals have expressed concern over the demolition and its impact on the historical structure.
Key Facts
- President Trump wants to demolish the East Wing of the White House to build a new ballroom.
- The White House is exempt from certain historic preservation rules because of a nearly 60-year-old law.
- Some previous presidents chose to follow these historic preservation rules voluntarily.
- The National Trust for Historic Preservation wrote a letter urging President Trump to hold a public review process.
- Renovations to the White House have occurred under many presidents, adding features like a bowling alley and swimming pool.
- Section 107 of the National Historic Preservation Act exempts the White House, US Capitol, and US Supreme Court building from the review process.
- Trump officials have stated they plan to submit renovation plans to the National Capital Planning Commission, though work has already started.
