The Daily Demolition at the White House
371 snips
Oct 24, 2025 
Luke Broadwater, a White House reporter for The New York Times, dives into the controversial demolition of the East Wing. It was unexpected, despite previous assurances it would remain intact. The discussion highlights Trump's lavish new ballroom vision, the project's soaring costs, and the ethical concerns surrounding private funding. Broadwater stresses the impact of major donors on influence and access, and he examines how this renovation fits into Trump's legacy, raising questions about historical perception and the symbolism of rubble.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Unexpected Demolition Sparked Outcry
- The demolition surprised many because Trump previously said the East Wing wouldn't be touched and the teardown happened with little public notice.
- Historians and architects raised alarms when excavators began tearing apart a 123-year-old White House annex without clear prior disclosure.
Ballroom Built For Mega-Scale Entertaining
- Trump wants a grand ballroom to host about 1,000 people because he finds the East Room too small and dislikes using tents for big events.
- He envisions a space twice the size of the White House residence to match his preference for large, showy entertaining.
Trump Turns White House Into Party Venue
- Luke describes Trump DJing at the Rose Garden Club and favoring show tunes, reflecting his personal entertaining style.
- Broadwater says Trump aims to make the White House more like Mar-a-Lago, leaving a personal stamp on official spaces.