Without warning, bulldozers tore through the East Wing of the White House—a historic part of America’s most iconic public building—making way for a private $300 million ballroom backed by President Trump. No permission was requested. No public input was given. And now, two Kentucky lawmakers—Rep. James Comer and Sen. Rand Paul—will help decide whether this controversial project moves forward.

That’s not how democracy works.

The National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), where Comer and Paul sit as voting members, is supposed to safeguard the historic integrity of the capital. But the East Wing demolition happened before any review. This sets a dangerous precedent: if a president can bulldoze part of the White House without approval, what’s stopping future leaders from doing the same?

This isn’t about politics. It’s about preserving the historical legacy of the people’s house and restoring transparency in federal decision-making. The public deserves answers. Who approved the demolition? Who is financing the ballroom? And why was the legal process bypassed?

We call on Rep. James Comer, Sen. Rand Paul, and the National Capital Planning Commission to:

• Publicly oppose the Trump ballroom project until a full, independent investigation is completed;
• Demand answers on who authorized the East Wing demolition and how it was funded;
• Ensure the NCPC fulfills its role as a nonpartisan guardian of our capital’s historic and civic integrity.

The White House belongs to the people—not to private donors, not to political vanity projects, and not to anyone who thinks they can rewrite history with a wrecking ball.

Add your name if you believe that decisions about our national landmarks should never be made in secret.

Photo: Eric Lee/Getty Images