President Donald Trump's approach to the White House is taking up significant mental space, as he oversees two wars, an affordability crisis, and challenging midterm elections for his party. Yet, he frequently discusses his vision for the proposed White House ballroom and the addition of gold fixtures throughout the residence.
Trump's Focus on White House Decor
In September, Trump boasted on Truth Social that the Oval Office and Cabinet Rooms featured "some of the highest quality 24 Karat Gold" and that foreign leaders "freak out" when they see the quality. He concluded, "Best Oval Office ever, in terms of success and look!!!" These projects are typically associated with the first lady, but Trump has taken charge, according to experts.
Katherine Jellison, a history professor at Ohio University, noted, "In the current Trump term, the president is in charge of White House renovations. He also seems to make most decisions about entertainers who perform at the White House, which used to be largely in the first lady's domain."
Subverting Gender Roles
Trump's emphasis on design work subverts traditional gender dynamics. Jellison explained that rehabbing the White House is more associated with first ladies, like Jackie Kennedy's historical restoration project. Trump's early second-term project involved demolishing the first lady's domain, a choice Melania Trump distanced herself from, suggesting a disrespect for the FLOTUS role.
Psychologist Patti Wood said, "It's interesting in terms of the relationship with Melania. Which projects does he say are his? Which ones does he say are hers? But it always comes out that he feels like it's his. Everything seems to be a reflection of him and his control." She cited projects like paving Jackie Kennedy's rose garden and adding patio umbrellas from Mar-a-Lago.
Asserting Power
Wood described Trump's branding of the White House in his image as "shocking" and a power move. "It's all dramatically overwhelming us with things that a president traditionally doesn't decide unilaterally. Congress decides, the people decide. To say 'I'm going to control all of D.C.' makes us feel powerless," she said.
Former first lady Michelle Obama made a similar observation when the East Wing was demolished, stating, "To denigrate it, to tear it down, to pretend like it doesn't matter—it's a reflection of how you think of that role." She noted that the East Wing's work provided balance and approval points for the administration.
Historical Context
Despite the subversion of gender roles, Trump's involvement is not unprecedented. Theodore Roosevelt was heavily involved in White House renovations. Jellison said, "Like Trump, he was a larger-than-life figure who wanted to be at the center of everything. I think Trump may be outpacing even Roosevelt."
Jellison also noted that Melania Trump has maintained a lower profile than other first ladies, projecting an image of a businesslike woman in charge of her own life. Trump's public role in design projects, while unusual, demonstrates some subversion of immutable gender roles, as it would have been considered unmanly in previous administrations.
