US President Donald Trump addressed the controversy surrounding the demolition of part of the White House to construct a new ballroom, dismissing criticism and describing the sounds of construction as "music to my ears." The project has drawn sharp reactions from Democrats, including former first lady Hillary Clinton, who accused the Republican president of not respecting the presidential mansion after excavators removed parts of the East Wing's facade.
During a lunch for Republican senators at the White House, Trump emphasized that the renovation would result in a "world-class ballroom." He could be heard speaking over the noise of machinery in the background. "You probably hear the beautiful sound of construction to the back. You hear that sound? Oh, that's music to my ears. I love that sound," he said.
The 79-year-old property mogul also claimed that taxpayers would not bear any cost for the $250-million project. "When I hear that sound it reminds me of money. In this case it reminds of lack of money because I'm paying for it," he added, highlighting that he is partially funding the work while private and corporate donors cover the rest.
Last week, Trump hosted an extravagant dinner for donors, featuring guests from top US tech firms. However, the White House has yet to release a list of attendees or provide specific figures about the funding.
Journalists observed ongoing demolition work on the East Wing, which houses the offices of the first ladies. This area has become a focal point for criticism from some former occupants.
- 'Pearl-clutching' -
Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who served during her husband Bill Clinton's presidency from 1993 to 2001, was among the critics. She stated, "It's not his house. It's your house. And he’s destroying it." Clinton, who lost to Trump in the 2016 election, voiced strong disapproval of the project.
Other Democrats drew comparisons between the demolition and Trump's broader efforts to reshape the federal government and target political opponents. Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono commented on social media, saying, "The demolition of the East Wing feels very symbolic of what Trump is doing to our democracy. He'll lie about protecting it, then destroy it right in front of your face."
Senior Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the timing of the project, noting that Americans are facing a "skyrocketing" cost of living. "Donald Trump can't hear you over the sound of bulldozers demolishing a wing of the White House to build a new grand ballroom," she said.
The White House dismissed the criticism as "pearl-clutching" from its opponents. In a statement, it called the ballroom a "visionary addition" and described it as a "bold, necessary addition that echoes the storied history of improvements and renovations" by previous presidents.
The administration also highlighted past renovations, such as President Barack Obama's upgrade of the tennis court into a full basketball court. Trump has been leading a major transformation of the White House during his second term, including paving over the grass of the Rose Garden, where he recently hosted Republican senators.
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