Memo says White House was 'excellently preserved' during East Wing demolition for Trump's ballroom - AP News
AP News
February 13, 2026
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The White House has been praised for its preservation efforts during the demolition of the East Wing, which was carried out under former President Donald Trump to create a new grand ballroom. A memo obtained by AP News highlights that the main structure of the building was "excellently preserved" throughout the process, despite the significant renovations. The demolition involved removing parts of the East Wing, including the press briefing room and visitor center, but the core historical sections of the White House remained untouched and well-maintained.
The memo details how the demolition was carefully managed to ensure minimal impact on the building's historical integrity. Key areas, such as the original walls, floors, and structural supports, were preserved using controlled methods like manual removal and careful planning. This approach allowed for modernization while safeguarding the iconic architecture and artifacts within the White House.
The East Wing renovation, which was one of Trump's most controversial and costly projects during his presidency, has been a topic of debate among historians and architects. Critics argue that altering such a historic space sets a concerning precedent for future renovations. However, supporters claim the project modernized infrastructure and created a more functional space for official events.
This story matters because it underscores the delicate balance between preserving history and adapting to modern needs. The White House, as a symbol of American democracy, holds immense historical value. The memo's findings provide insight into how significant structures can be updated without losing their cultural and architectural heritage, making it an important topic for those interested in architecture, history, and public policy.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/13/2026