Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) is calling on all 2028 Democratic presidential hopefuls to commit to tearing down President Trump’s new White House ballroom project if elected. The statement came as part of a broader Democratic response to ongoing East Wing renovations initiated under Trump’s current term.
Swalwell said, “Don’t even think of seeking the Democratic nomination for president unless you pledge to take a wrecking ball to the Trump Ballroom on DAY ONE.” The post quickly drew reactions from critics who view the demand as petty and partisan.
The ballroom project, estimated at $250 million, is a privately funded renovation of the White House’s East Wing. According to administration officials, the project involves no taxpayer dollars and is designed to modernize the space while adding a 90,000-square-foot presidential event hall.
Demolition of the East Wing’s façade began in late October 2025. Despite no public funding, the project has stirred opposition from progressive lawmakers and activists who argue it represents vanity construction and undermines historical preservation.
For observers focused on traditional governance and national heritage, the controversy raises broader questions. Calls for demolishing a sitting president’s legacy project reflect heightened partisan division. While presidents routinely shape the White House during their terms, the idea of reversing such changes immediately—particularly at private expense—challenges norms of continuity and civic respect.
