Donald Trump’s demolition of the East Wing of the White House represents a sad point for the United States. Trump has destroyed many things; He is currently destroying democracy, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, equality and he is splitting up families.

A lot has been lost under the Trump administration. Karoline Leavitt has embraced being disrespectful towards journalists in particular, or just anyone asking legitimate questions. ICE is not just taking illegal immigrants away, they are also using unnecessary force, hurting children, ruining businesses that are not harming anyone and splitting up families that have been together for decades.

Trump is making way for the golden ballroom while people cannot eat because of the loss of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, certain government employees are not being paid and hardworking Americans, particularly the upcoming adults, cannot afford apartments, houses or groceries.

Trump claimed the East Wing was “A very small building. Never thought of as being much.” In actuality, the East Wing has served as a popularly used space for many past presidents and their families.

The East Wing was where President John F. Kennedy saw “From Russia With Love” just before he was assassinated. It was also where a photographer in 2009 caught President Barack Obama running playfully down a hall with his dog, Bo. The space hosted weddings, receptions and other events. There were portraits of first ladies on the walls. There was a lot of history there and joy that represented happy times during chaos.

Visitors in 2010 at the East Wing were also able to write notes to service members at that time. The bunker below was called the Presidential Emergency Operations Center where Vice President Dick Cheney went during the 9/11 attacks. Trump should acknowledge what the East Wing actually meant to people.

Trump thinks the ballroom will be a great addition to the White House and is bursting about the fact that it will hold 1,000 people. It is sad that we have a president who cares more about a ballroom than Americans. Leavitt noted that the ballroom is one of Trump’s top priorities. Trump needs to get his priorities straight.