Construction has begun on an octagon-shaped UFC cage on the White House south lawn. The fight is planned to celebrate Donald Trump's 80th birthday and the nation's 250th anniversary — with a 5,000-seat arena outside the front door and 85,000 free tickets for spectators at nearby locations.

This comes after Trump paved over the Rose Garden, demolished the East Wing, and approved plans for a $400 million ballroom. The people's house is being systematically transformed into a personal entertainment complex for the president's own amusement.

The White House belongs to the American people. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of democracy in the world. It is not a venue for commercial sporting events, personal birthday parties, or vanity construction projects funded on the public's dime.

We're calling on Congress to investigate the use of White House grounds for private entertainment and to put an end to the ongoing demolition and commercialization of one of America's most historic landmarks.

Photo: AP