More golden embellishments adorn the Oval Office, with Trump drawing comparisons to Liberace
In the heart of the White House, the Oval Office has undergone a significant transformation since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025. The changes, which include golden flourishes, cherubs, and presidential portraits, have been compared to a grand ballroom, reflecting Trump's personal style and part of broader modifications he has made to the White House interiors.
The gold-themed redecoration of the Oval Office has been a topic of controversy and criticism. ABC's This Week shared a video showing the monthly breakdown of additions to the office, with social media users labelling the decor as a "tacky gold palace" and a "s**t show." Critics argue that Trump prioritizes decorating the Oval Office over important social programs, and the cost of the renovations is expected to reach $2 million.
The criticism extends beyond the Oval Office, with some claiming that Trump has ruined the Rose Garden as well. The garden, once a symbol of beauty and tranquility, has been replaced with stone, and massive flagpoles now stand on the north and south lawns.
The excessive use of gold in the Oval Office has drawn comparisons to flamboyant pianist Liberace, known for his excessive use of gold in his performances. An edited picture on Twitter even depicts Trump as Liberace and Vice-President JD Vance as Liberace's former lover Scott Thorson.
The decor of the Oval Office has also been compared to something out of Saddam Hussein's playbook, highlighting the opulence and grandeur of the changes. Despite the criticism, no specific details about the public or official responses to these gold additions have been reported.
As Trump prepares to leave the Oval Office in three years, it remains to be seen what impact these controversial decorative changes will have on his legacy. However, one thing is clear: the Oval Office, under Trump's administration, has become a symbol of bold, opulent design that divides opinion among the public.
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