Former US First Lady Michelle Obama has criticised the demolition of the White House’s East Wing, describing the move as a national loss after President Donald Trump ordered its removal to construct a new ballroom.
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Speaking on Jamie Kern Lima’s podcast on Tuesday, Obama was questioned about the ongoing works in the section traditionally associated with presidential spouses. She responded with visible emotion, saying the development left her questioning the country’s priorities.
“In my body, I felt confusion because I’m like, who are we? What do we value? And who decides that?” she reflected.
Work on the 90,000-square-foot ballroom commenced during the recent federal government shutdown, a period in which thousands of public employees were not receiving wages. The timing prompted sharp criticism from Democrats, who likened the decision to the extravagance of France’s Marie Antoinette.
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The $300 million project has reportedly been funded through donations from some of Trump’s wealthiest supporters. It is the latest in a series of stylistic changes made to the White House during his tenure, following the addition of gold accents in the Oval Office and the removal of elements of the Rose Garden, previously restored under Jackie Kennedy.
Despite assurances last July that construction would not affect the East Wing, Trump later conceded that the extensive damage could have been avoided. The renovation has drawn criticism beyond the former First Lady. Melania Trump, who succeeded Michelle Obama in the role, is said to be privately opposed, and a recent poll conducted by ABC News, Ipsos and The Washington Post suggested most Americans also disapproved.
Looking ahead, some Democratic lawmakers have already speculated about the future use of the space should their party win the 2028 presidential election. Maryland congressman Jamie Raskin has suggested transforming it into a museum dedicated to democracy.
Michelle Obama, who has become increasingly outspoken about the political climate in recent months, recently commented that the United States remains “not ready” to elect a female president. The White House has not issued further statements regarding the project.
