Posted on October 31, 2025

In the wake of ADAO’s October 22 press release and October 24 letter to the White House, scrutiny of the East Wing demolition has surged nationwide. What started as a quiet construction project has become a test of public trust and government transparency, raising urgent questions about asbestos safety, worker protection, and federal oversight.

For those asking what comes next, stay tuned — ADAO is actively pursuing investigations and actions. If you have information or a tip about the East Wing demolition, please email info@adao.us. 

National Media Coverage

ABC News Leads with Questions on Safety
ABC News reported, “Critics question whether White House, contractors ‘cut corners’ on asbestos safety in East Wing demolition.” The report highlights concern that the public has not been informed whether asbestos and other hazardous materials were properly assessed, contained, and removed before demolition began.

Under Pressure, White House Responds
The Washington Post followed with “Under pressure, the White House defends East Wing asbestos abatement,” raising questions about inspection procedures, abatement oversight, and the decision to move forward without releasing safety reports.

Advocates Demand Accountability
Politico’s E&E News covered the issue in “Asbestos advocates press White House on East Wing demolition.” The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) continues to call on the administration to release all environmental inspection, testing, and abatement documents.

Ars Technica Warns of Potential Asbestos Plumes
Ars Technica’s article, “Trump’s swift demolition of East Wing may have launched asbestos plumes,” reports growing fears that the hasty teardown occurred without proper abatement. Experts warn that rushing demolition without documented inspections or containment could have dispersed toxic asbestos fibers, endangering workers and the public.

Expert Perspective: Dr. Raja Flores
“As a thoracic surgeon, I’ve spent decades treating mesothelioma patients. When I saw the White House demolition, I cringed and thought about the many patients I’ve cared for. The nation deserves to know that everything was done safely — preventing legacy asbestos exposure is monumentally important to me.” — Dr. Raja Flores, Mount Sinai Hospital

ADAO’s Requests to the White House (October 24 Letter)

  • Full disclosure of asbestos inspection, testing, and abatement reports
  • Identification of contractors and federal oversight agencies involved
  • Documentation of environmental monitoring and worker safety compliance

Without these records, the public cannot be confident that required safety procedures were followed. As ADAO stated, “The White House should model safety, not secrecy. Transparency is prevention.”

Why It Matters

Each year, an estimated 40,000 Americans die from preventable asbestos-caused diseases. Any federal project — especially one at the White House — must meet the highest standards of safety and disclosure to protect workers and the public.

ADAO will continue to press for full data and documentation, as outlined in our October 24 letter. Public trust depends on transparency and accountability in all federal construction and abatement projects.

Stay Informed

Follow ADAO for ongoing updates as we advocate for truth, safety, and prevention.

Onward. Together.

Linda Reinstein