United States President Donald Trump has signed an order designating the Oval Office a national monument, further intensifying his focus on renovating and beautifying the White House despite a major midterm election setback for his Republican Party.
The move has drawn criticism from opponents who accused Trump of ignoring voters’ concerns over the war in Iran and the rising cost of living, while prioritising construction and renovation projects in Washington.
A day after Democrats secured victories in both chambers of Congress, Trump largely avoided addressing the election outcome, instead drawing attention to ongoing construction work on a new White House ballroom.
His latest announcement focused on the Oval Office, which he has decorated with gold ornaments since returning to power last year, as well as the adjoining Cabinet Room.
Trump said the designation would protect the two rooms from being altered or demolished by future administrations.
Speaking to reporters, he described the Oval Office as an important national space that should be preserved, insisting that the new order would prevent future presidents from carrying out changes to the rooms.
The decision has also fuelled speculation about possible further renovations to the West Wing, following previous suggestions by Trump that reporters could be moved from the White House briefing room located near the Oval Office.
The signing ceremony was not broadcast by major US television networks after Trump excluded CNN from the rotating pool of broadcasters covering White House events.
However, the president made a subtle reference to the midterm election outcome, placing a red baseball cap bearing the word “VETO” on the Resolute Desk.
Trump has threatened to use his presidential powers to block legislation introduced by Democrats, although he has also indicated a willingness to work with the opposition party.
