A few things:
I think there's been a lot of misconceptions about this among UAV pilots.
First, it's not a TFR. It's not temporary.
Second, it has nothing to do with the White House. The diameter is measured from Reagan National Airport, not the White House. Both the FAA version and DJI's version are measured from the airport.
Third, DJI has apparently recognized they were being overly restrictive by disabling our crafts in their so-called no-fly zones, and they're fixing that in the firmware of their current crafts such as the P3, making it possible to self-certify your craft (presumably after getting specific authorization from the FAA) and thereby fly in a restricted area.
Fourth, it's my understanding that the restricted area has always been about 30 miles since it was formed in 2003. The 15 mile restricted area, within the 30 mile area, is an even more restricted area than the 15-30 mile area, but nonetheless, the entire 30-mile radius area is restricted and has been for over a decade.
Washington, DC Metropolitan Area Special Flight Rules Area - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Yes, it's a huge area, but it doesn't necessarily wipe out our ability to fly. Presumably, it's possible to get authorization.
There is also a possible loophole in the language of the latest AC document discussing this - regarding "endangering the NAS." See attached document, specifically sections 6c, 6d, and 6e.
The document states that by law, the Administrator can take enforcement action against UAV pilots who fly in a restricted area and endanger the NAS. This seems to imply that if we DON'T endanger the NAS, the FAA won't or can't take enforcement action - not because they don't want to, but because the language of the current law won't allow them to - at least not yet.