A recent poll indicates that most Americans are against President Trump’s initiative to tear down part of the East Wing of the White House to create space for a new $250 million ballroom.
According to a YouGov American Poll released on Wednesday, 53% of respondents expressed strong or moderate disapproval of the decision to demolish part of the East Wing for renovations, while only 24% supported it, and another 24% remained uncertain.
The poll also surveyed opinions on “renovations and additions to the White House, including a new ballroom and patio in the Rose Garden.” In this case, 50% voiced their opposition, 33% were in favor, and 17% were unsure.
This poll, conducted on Tuesday—just a day after construction began on the $300 million ballroom—has generated a wave of viral reactions. Critics, including prominent figures, have condemned the president’s actions as an “attack” on the integrity of the White House.
Among Democrats, a significant 77% opposed the proposed renovations and the demolition itself.
While only 14% of Democrats supported the renovations, 9% were unsure. Support for demolition was lower, with 10% in favor and 13% uncertain.
In defense of his plans, President Trump stated on Wednesday that “to do it properly, we had to demolish the existing structure.” Initially, he claimed the construction of the banquet hall wouldn’t disrupt the current building; however, discussions with architects led to the decision to demolish the East Wing.
Trump characterized the East Tower as “a very small building” and implied it wasn’t a significant loss.
Among Republicans, there’s a divide: 45% backed the demolition as part of the renovation effort, while 28% disapproved, and 27% were unsure of their stance.
The party seems more agreeable to the renovations in general, with 63% supporting the overall plan, while 18% opposed it and 19% were undecided.
Independents appear to align more closely with Democrats on this matter, with majorities opposing both the renovations and the East Wing demolition at rates of 55% and 54%, respectively.
Support for renovations among independents stood at 22%, but 23% were still unsure. Only 16% expressed favor for the demolition, while 30% were uncertain.
The survey took place on October 21 and included 2,038 adults, with a margin of error of 3 percentage points.
