Opinions about Donald Trump’s decision to overhaul the East Wing of the White House vary wildly. This move is part of a plan to build a grand ballroom worth $300 million—a project he has openly discussed with much enthusiasm. However, Melania Trump has remained characteristically silent about the drastic changes.
Donald Trump embarked on the significant remodeling of the White House’s East Wing, intending to create a lavish ballroom. This bold move has provoked a mix of outrage and support from various quarters.
Despite the controversy, Melania Trump has offered no public comment on the subject. Traditionally, the First Lady’s office is located in the East Wing, but Melania had to relocate as the demolition commenced.
The teardown included the removal of significant areas such as the Office of the First Lady, the East Colonnade, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden. The transformation is so extensive that it can be seen from space.
Among those unhappy with the demolition is Stephanie Grisham, Melania Trump’s former chief of staff. Grisham worked with Melania during their first term and expressed her dismay on CNN, stating that the demolition “breaks her heart.”
“It’s something that could never be put back,” Grisham commented. “I wish they would have gone about it in a better way… I can’t help wonder what Melania thinks of how all of this is taking place.”
Melania’s Private Concerns
Grisham further elaborated, “I certainly didn’t expect it to be demolished like a condemned house over three days or so.”
Beyond serving as her office space, Melania had personal projects within the affected areas. In 2018, she notably planted 40 blood-red trees in the East Colonnade to honor fallen military service members.
So, what are her real thoughts on the ballroom and the dismantling of historical sites within the White House grounds?
According to the Wall Street Journal, behind closed doors, Melania has shared her apprehensions. The publication cites administration officials who claim she conveys to confidants that she has distanced herself from the project, as it wasn’t her initiative.
The East Wing’s demolition also brings into focus Melania Trump’s influence—or perceived lack thereof—within her husband’s presidency.
For her second term at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the First Lady retained only five full-time staffers, all of whom have since been relocated to different sections of the White House.
Redefining Traditional Roles
Kate Andersen Brower, author of “First Women,” a book delving into the lives of modern First Ladies, noted to CNN, “Watching the demolition is the physical embodiment of watching the first lady’s role become smaller and smaller.”
Brower observed further: “She’s making it clear that – like her husband – she’s not going to be like any other first lady. … She doesn’t care about historic precedent, either.”
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