The speedy demolition of the East Wing of the White House last week has health advocates and Democratic lawmakers seeking answers about what efforts were taken, if any, to keep workers and passersby safe from potential plumes of asbestos that could arise from the destruction, according to a report by The Washington Post.

First intended as an entrance for social events, the East Wing became the first lady's office space. Historians say the shift was a key part of professionalizing staff for the president's wife.

When the AP heard that demolition was going to begin on the East Wing of the White House, staff photojournalist Jacquelyn Martin said photography and reporting teams immediately began to brainstorm locations to try to reveal the scope of the work.

Critics are questioning if the demolition of the White House East Wing adhered to federal health and safety standards, including those governing the handling of asbestos.

Asbestos, which can pose serious health risks when exposed during demolition, was frequently used in projects at the time of the East Wing’s construction.

Amid the rubble and rancor memorializing where the East Wing of the White House once stood, President Donald Trump and his team are trying to dig out. Public outrage has been piling up over the sudden demolition to make way for the sprawling,

A 56% majority of Americans oppose the Trump administration tearing down the East Wing of the White House as part of the construction of a 90,000-square-foot ballroom paid for by $300 million in private donations, including 45% who "strongly" oppose it, the poll finds.

Fifty-six percent say they oppose President Donald Trump’s decision to tear down part of the White House to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom building.

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Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association and a White House history buff, has a different point of view about the demolition of the East Wing.

"But if someone asks about the Epstein files, he'll hit the lights and pretend he's not home," the "Tonight Show" host jests.