Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) addressed the ongoing debate over the demolition of the East Wing of the White House and President Trump’s plan to construct a ballroom, suggesting that the focus should really be on how the government shutdown affects federal workers in her state.
During an appearance on MSNBC’s “The Briefing with Jen Psaki,” Whitmer discussed the shutdown, while Psaki presented a striking split screen showing the East Wing being demolished, highlighting that this was happening as many workers were losing wages and critical benefits due to the shutdown.
When Psaki inquired about her thoughts on the split screen, Whitmer replied, “Honestly, I’ve been speaking with people, and no one here is concerned about a ballroom in Washington, D.C.” She emphasized that the priority for most people is ensuring they can provide for their children. “The longer this shutdown lasts, the more anxious people become,” she added.
Whitmer pointed out that many Americans “will never find themselves in a ballroom.” Instead, their daily concerns revolve around feeding their kids, getting to work, avoiding potholes, and managing expenses like car repairs that might force them to divert money intended for rent or childcare. “We need to concentrate on what truly matters to people,” she urged.
On the same day, the East Wing of the White House was fully demolished. The Trump administration plans to replace it with a new ballroom, expected to be finished by the end of the president’s second term in 2029, with construction costs estimated at around $300 million. The White House also announced a list of donors who will help fund the project.
The East Wing has a long history of renovations and controversies. Originally designed as a colonnade during President Thomas Jefferson’s term, it saw numerous updates, including the addition of a movie theater and a bunker during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency, often amid political opposition.
Additionally, the East Wing served as the office for the First Lady as well as housing the White House social secretary and calligrapher, though these roles have been moved elsewhere within the building.
