President Donald Trump’s renovation of the East Wing began on Monday, sparking a mix of outrage, debate and historical facts.
The White House announced in July that it would be building the White House State Ballroom, calling it a “much-needed and exquisite addition.”
The ballroom is expected to be about 90,000 total square feet and cost about $200 million. As of Monday, an excavator was seen outside the White House tearing down parts of the East Wing. The East Wing has typically served as office space for the first lady and her staff.