Reports indicate that First Lady Melania Trump is reluctant to be associated with President Donald Trump’s ambitious plan to demolish part of The White House. In early October 2025, the President unveiled controversial proposals to renovate the East Wing, which involve constructing a large ballroom intended to replicate the atmosphere of their residence in Mar-a-Lago. While the First Lady has previously expressed support for redecorating The White House, her stance on this specific project appears to be one of disapproval.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Melania Trump has “privately raised concerns” about the demolition of the East Wing, emphasizing that it is not her initiative. Administration officials noted that she has communicated to associates her desire to distance herself from the project, despite suggestions that she has backed earlier efforts to modernize The White House to resemble their Florida estate.
An anonymous member of the Mar-a-Lago club remarked, “Anytime Melania and Donald can make The White House feel more like Mar-a-Lago, they will.” The source added, “They love Mar-a-Lago. Not only is it their home, but Donald personally created much of the current decor and takes pride in living there and showing it to other people.”
Public reaction to the renovation has been mixed. President Trump has claimed that the plans will not harm The White House, but images and videos circulating on social media show heavy machinery dismantling parts of the East Wing, raising concerns among critics about the project’s implications for the historic site.
On October 21, 2025, the National Capital Planning Commission issued a letter urging the Administration to pause demolition until the proposed ballroom plans undergo the legally required public review processes. This recommendation reflects growing apprehension regarding the preservation of The White House’s historical integrity amid ongoing renovations.
In a separate public appearance in September, Melania Trump attended a state banquet at Windsor Palace, where she wore a striking yellow gown. During this visit, she notably forgot to observe royal protocol by curtsying, further highlighting the complexities of her role as First Lady.
As the renovation project progresses, the First Lady’s desire to maintain distance from the ballroom initiative may reflect broader concerns regarding public perception and historical preservation.
