Former US President Donald Trump has disclosed the specific historical artefact he ordered salvaged before the demolition of the White House's East Wing commenced. The item, a bust of former President Abraham Lincoln, was relocated to a new position within the executive mansion's grounds.
The Salvaged Artefact and Renovation Rationale
During a public appearance, Trump showcased the preserved bust of Abraham Lincoln. He confirmed it had been moved from the now-demolished East Wing to the West Wing colonnade. This action was part of a wider, and highly contentious, renovation project at the White House.
The 123-year-old East Wing, which traditionally housed offices and served as the official visitor entrance, was torn down to make way for a new ballroom. Trump stated that demolishing the existing structure was deemed a more cost-effective solution than attempting to build the new $300 million ballroom facility around it.
Political Backlash and Controversial Approval
The decision to raze the historic wing did not go unchallenged. The demolition sparked significant pushback from Democratic politicians, who heavily criticised the approval process for the major architectural change. They argued the process lacked proper oversight and disregarded the building's historical significance.
Despite the criticism, the renovation proceeded. Trump presented the saving of the Lincoln bust as a key act of preservation amidst the wider redevelopment efforts, which have been labelled a "widely criticised makeover" by many observers.
A Personal Touch at Turning Point
The revelation came during a Turning Point event on Monday 22 December 2025. In a personal moment, Trump was seen showing the salvaged bust to his granddaughter, Kai. The event also featured a notable phone call where Trump, in a characteristic manner, threatened to "fire Don Jr.," adding a layer of familial drama to the political gathering.
The relocation of the Lincoln bust stands as a symbolic gesture in a renovation project that continues to divide opinion, balancing claims of modern necessity against accusations of erasing historical heritage.
