The White House recently demolished the entire East Wing, a building that was in use since 1902, to make room for a new ballroom. The demolition comes with a $300 million price tag, funded by private corporate sponsors. David Brooks, a columnist at the New York Times, believes this project is a good idea, as it shows the need for modernization. However, Kimberly Atkins Stohr of the Boston Globe disagrees, arguing that the renovation is transactional and ignores the public’s role in maintaining the White House.
Meanwhile, the redistricting battle intensifies across several key states, with both parties escalating their efforts to alter voting districts. Brooks argues that Democrats should not join Republicans in trying to eliminate competitive races, instead focusing on upholding democratic standards.
In other news, US officials have visited Israel as part of a two-week ceasefire effort, which appears fragile. Trump administration officials, including the vice president and secretary of state, have met with Netanyahu and other top Israeli officials. Brooks praises the administration’s efforts in brokering the cease-fire but warns that it is vulnerable to threats from Netanyahu.
The conversation also touches on the importance of moral ecology in journalism, as exemplified by former host Jim Lehrer. The legacy of Lehrer’s approach continues to influence the program.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/brooks-and-atkins-stohr-on-the-east-wing-demolition