Trump defends $300M ballroom project: "We had to take down the existing" East Wing

President Trump is defending a $300 million expansion project involving the demolition of the White House East Wing. This project, initially estimated at $200 million, draws criticism for its scope. The National Trust for Historic Preservation expresses concern that the planned ballroom will overshadow the White House. Trump previously stated the ballroom wouldn't touch the building, but now acknowledges demolition is necessary. The East Wing's destruction is needed for proper construction after evaluation by top architects. A White House official states the East Wing is being modernized to support the ballroom and its future home. The East Wing held the First Lady's offices after its 1902 construction. The White House we know today results from historic renovations, notably led by President Truman. Trump claimed the East Wing suffered negative alterations in 1948-1949. Renderings from July showed the location of the ballroom on the East Wing site.