Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) has laid down a bold requirement for any Democrat hoping to secure the party’s 2028 presidential nomination: promise to obliterate the ballroom project of Donald Trump.

In a post on X, Swalwell warned bluntly:

“Don’t even think of seeking the Democratic nomination for president unless you pledge to take a wrecking ball to the Trump Ballroom on DAY ONE.”

He followed up with:

“Or, as @RubenGallego proposes, rename it the Barack Obama Ballroom. But a Trump monument to corruption will not stand.”

Yes, you read that correctly: renaming Trump’s multi-million-dollar ballroom after his political rival is floated as an alternative to demolition.

Let’s back up a bit. The President began demolition on the East Wing of the White House to make room for what’s now a roughly 90,000-square-foot ballroom, designed to seat around 1,000 guests. Media reports peg the cost at $300 million.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the project, calling it “a much-needed and exquisite addition.”

“The White House is currently unable to host major functions honoring world leaders in other countries without having to install a large and unsightly tent approximately 100 yards away from the main building’s entrance.”

Trump has emphasized that this ballroom is being privately funded — by himself and approximately 37 corporate and private donors — not via taxpayer dollars. Among the contributors are tech giants like Amazon and Apple. Donations have reportedly been managed through the nonprofit Trust for the National Mall.

Swalwell’s demand triggered its own backlash. MAGA attorney Jonathan Turley called the notion “reckless,” while Trump advisor Jason Miller dismissed Swalwell as “an idiot.”