Former Aide Critiques East Wing Demolition
Stephanie Grisham, a former assistant to Melania Trump, expressed strong disapproval of the demolition of the East Wing of the White House, labeling it “disgusting” as construction on a new ballroom is underway.
During a segment on CNN’s “Outfront,” Grisham, who also served as press secretary, shared her feelings on the matter. “Having worked in both the East and West Wings, this is truly heartbreaking,” she stated emphatically.
She reflected on President Trump’s frequent concerns about inadequate space for hosting events, like state dinners, noting that she tended to agree with him on this issue. “Some features really did need more room,” Grisham acknowledged.
Grisham recounted a specific occasion when a band was set up on the White House rooftop due to space constraints during a dinner. Despite her recognition of the need for more space, she and other former aides are anticipating new construction elsewhere on the White House grounds, though not in the East Wing itself.
“I didn’t think it would be taken down so quickly—like a matter of days,” she remarked, referring to the rapid demolition process that began on Monday and wrapped up by Thursday.
The East Wing, which included the first lady’s office, the social secretary’s office, a movie theater, and the presidential bunker, was demolished to make way for the ballroom, a project unveiled in July. While Trump once indicated that the entirety of the East Tower wouldn’t be demolished, preservationists and some politicians have criticized the decision. The White House defended the reconstruction as a “bold and necessary addition.”
Initial project estimates were around $200 million, but costs have now risen to nearly $300 million. Recently, the administration released a list of donors backing the renovation.
Grisham stated that, as a citizen, witnessing this change is difficult. She also speculated that Melania Trump might be shocked by the footage of the East Tower being demolished, especially since this space has been a traditional office for first ladies. Grisham remarked, “This must be surprising for her to see.”
