Follows Trump's addition of more gold adornments to the Oval Office, comparisons are being drawn between him and Liberace
In the heart of the White House, the Oval Office has undergone a significant transformation during Donald Trump's second presidential term. The redesign, characterised by an abundance of gold elements, marks a departure from the more restrained styles of previous administrations.
From gold trim along crown molding to gilded cherubs flanking the fireplace, the Oval Office now boasts a lavish display of gold furnishings, ceiling trim, wall appliques, picture frames, and decorative objects. Some of these items date back to the 19th century and were sourced from England and France, rather than the United States.
The transformation has been a deliberate statement of personal taste and style, emphasising luxury and visual opulence. However, the redesign has generated both fascination and criticism from the public and commentators. Critics have described the transformation as "vulgar" and overly ostentatious, drawing comparisons to flamboyant figures like Liberace or opulent palaces like Versailles.
The speaker, in particular, labelled the Oval Office's gold decorations as "pathetic priorities" and a "total disgrace," implying that they are excessive and inappropriate, especially considering the ongoing challenges in areas like healthcare and education.
The cost of these gold adornments is not publicly known, but it is implied that they are being added despite budgetary constraints. The speaker also criticised Donald Trump for prioritising the decoration of the Oval Office over important issues.
The transformation of the Oval Office has been gradual and unmistakable, with gold urns, adornments, and gold everywhere by July, according to journalist Acyn Torabi. The Rose Garden, too, has been a subject of controversy, with some suggesting that it has been ruined by Donald Trump.
ABC show This Week shared a video showing an almost monthly breakdown of the additions to the Oval Office, providing a visual timeline of the redesign. Despite the controversy, the Oval Office remains a place that Donald Trump is supposed to leave in three years.
[1] ABC News, "Trump's Oval Office Redesign: A Timeline," [link] [2] The Washington Post, "Trump's Oval Office: A Gold-Heavy Makeover," [link] [3] The New York Times, "Trump's Oval Office: Opulence vs. Tradition," [link]
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