Trump Redecorates White House with Gold Accents and New Flagpoles

President Donald Trump has begun making significant aesthetic changes to the White House, including adding golden accents throughout the Oval Office and planning to install two new flagpoles on the grounds. The renovations reflect Trump's background in real estate development and his stated vision of presiding over what he has called a 'golden age of America.' White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt noted that Trump is a 'real estate developer at heart' who is always looking to improve the property.

The Oval Office renovations include golden elements added to the fireplace, doorway arches, and walls. Trump has also installed portraits of all his predecessors and a wall-mounted copy of the Declaration of Independence protected by dark drapes. Additionally, the president has hung new artwork featuring himself, including a painting depicting the moment after last summer's assassination attempt, which replaced former President Obama's portrait in the foyer.

Beyond the Oval Office, Trump has announced plans to modify the Rose Garden by replacing its lawn with stone. During a tour with Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Trump explained his reasoning, stating that the grass is often 'soaking wet' and problematic for 'women with high heels.' He assured that the roses would remain intact, saying the change would make the historic space 'more beautiful.' The Rose Garden, created during the Kennedy administration, has long served as a venue for presidential announcements and ceremonies.

Trump told reporters he will personally pay for two new flagpoles to be installed on the White House grounds, saying they've 'needed flagpoles for 200 years.' The American and POW/MIA flags currently fly on the White House roof daily. These changes follow previous modifications made during Trump's first term, when he and former First Lady Melania Trump refurbished the tennis courts and added a new pavilion on the south grounds.

Presidential redecorating of the White House is a longstanding tradition, with each first family making changes to leave their mark on the historic residence. Former President Biden reportedly had his brother assist with decorating decisions during his term. Michelle Obama's vegetable garden, established during her time as First Lady, continues to produce on the White House grounds, demonstrating how presidential influences on the property often outlast their administrations.