After East Wing demolition, White House tours are back just in time for the holidays

"White House tours are set to resume Tuesday, just in time for the holidays - and with a much smaller footprint than before this year's East Wing demolition. The tours were on a three-month hiatus because of President Trump's decision to build an estimated $300 million ballroom, which resulted in the East Wing's removal. Images of the demolition sparked controversy and outrage with some suggesting the excavators tearing into the East Wing were a metaphor for Trump's approach to the government since returning to office."

"There are 75 wreaths with red bows, 51 Christmas trees, more than 700 feet of garland, more than 2,000 strands of light, more than 25,000 feet of ribbon and 2,800 gold stars, according to the White House. First lady Melania Trump and her team had far less real estate to work with as they mapped out her "Home Is Where The Heart Is" themed decorations."

"Tours now start and finish in the North Portico of the White House and include stops in the East Room, Blue Room, Green Room, Red Room and State Dining Room. The East Wing and basement rooms such as the Map Room that had previously been decorated are no longer part of the public tour route. A semi-permanent structure has been erected on the North Lawn for security screening of guests. The official White House Christmas Tree is the focal point of the Blue Room."

White House tours resume with a much smaller footprint following removal of the East Wing to build an estimated $300 million ballroom. The demolition prompted controversy, outrage, and polling showing majority opposition. Tours begin and end at the North Portico and include the East Room, Blue Room, Green Room, Red Room, and State Dining Room, while the East Wing and basement rooms such as the Map Room are excluded. A semi-permanent structure on the North Lawn is used for guest security screening. First lady Melania Trump selected "Home Is Where The Heart Is" themed decorations. The ornaments were 3D printed with AI assisting in designs.

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