President Donald Trump signed an order on Thursday (November 5, 2026) designating the Oval Office as a national monument, redoubling his focus on beautifying the White House despite a brutal midterms defeat for his Republican Party. U.S.
The 80-year-old Republican has threatened to use his presidential powers to block Democratic legislation, although saying he was also ready to work with the rival party.
The day after Democrats won the House of Representatives and Senate, Mr. “It won’t be able to be taken down, destroyed, touched, or anything else. Critics accused Mr. Trump virtually ignored the result and showed off construction work on his new White House ballroom instead. This time Mr. It’s called actually a national monument,” Mr. The move, however, fueled speculation that Mr. Trump could be preparing further work on the West Wing, after several hints that he could move reporters out of the famed briefing room located near the Oval. Mr. Mr.
Trump of ignoring voter concerns over the Iran war and affordability ahead of Tuesday’s (November 4, 2026) midterm elections and obsessing instead on multiple construction and renovation projects in the capital.
He said the proclamation would “make it impossible for anybody ever to destroy this incredible space” and prevent future presidents from carrying out any building work on the two rooms. Trump told reporters. Trump’s signing of the order in the Oval Office was not broadcast on major U.S. networks, as he has banned CNN from the rotating “pool” of television outlets that cover White House events. Trump did give one nod to the midterms, with a red baseball cap with the word “veto” on the Resolute Desk in front of him.
Trump’s focus was on the Oval Office, which he has bedecked with gold ornaments since returning to power last year, and the neighboring Cabinet Room.
