Trump Moves to Shield Oval Office From Future Changes
President Donald Trump has signed an order designating the Oval Office and the adjoining Cabinet Room as a national monument, saying the move would stop future presidents from altering or demolishing the historic spaces.
Trump announced the decision on Thursday, saying the rooms could no longer be “taken down, destroyed, touched, or anything else.” He has added gold decorations to the Oval Office since returning to power last year.
The announcement came amid criticism that Trump has focused too heavily on construction projects in Washington while voters remain concerned about the war in Iran and the rising cost of living. After Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in Tuesday’s midterm elections, Trump largely set aside the result and highlighted work on a new White House ballroom.
His latest move has also prompted questions about whether further changes to the West Wing are planned. Trump has previously suggested relocating reporters from the White House briefing room, which is near the Oval Office.
The signing was not televised by major US networks. CNN has also been excluded from the rotating group of television outlets covering presidential events at the White House.
Trump made a brief reference to the election by placing a red cap marked “veto” on the Resolute Desk. He has threatened to block Democratic-backed legislation, while also saying he is open to working with the opposition.
