The White House Historical Association, established by Jacqueline Kennedy to uphold the building’s historic character, has chosen not to speak against the president’s modifications.

President Donald Trump demolished the White House’s East Wing in October last year. This decision surprised the public, Congress members, and parts of his administration.

However, leaders of the White House Historical Association were aware. A representative stated they knew by late July that Trump intended to remove the East Wing to construct his ballroom. Despite this knowledge, they decided not to oppose the president’s plans. The public became aware of this demolition only when the machinery began operations nearly three months later.