US President Donald Trump has unveiled the latest in a series of high-profile renovations to the White House, this time focusing on the Lincoln Bedroom’s bathroom. The newly redesigned space features black and white marble with gold fixtures, which Trump claims are ‘very appropriate for the time of Abraham Lincoln.’ The president shared images of the updated bathroom on social media, criticizing its previous 1940s art deco green tile style as ‘totally inappropriate for the Lincoln Era.’
The Lincoln Bedroom, originally part of Abraham Lincoln’s office and cabinet room, underwent significant changes during former President Harry Truman’s extensive White House renovations in the late 1940s. Historical records from the White House Historical Association indicate that Lincoln’s office and bedroom were once adorned with green and gold wallpaper. Trump’s latest update includes gold accents for the sink, bathtub faucet, shower door, and a chandelier.
This renovation is part of Trump’s broader efforts to leave his mark on the White House, which has included the demolition of the East Wing to make way for a multi-million-dollar ballroom and the transformation of the Rose Garden’s lawn into a stone patio. These changes have drawn sharp criticism from conservation groups and political opponents, who argue that the alterations undermine the historical integrity of the building. Conservationists have called for public review before such modifications, claiming they overwhelm the White House’s classical style.
Democrats have seized on the renovations as evidence of misplaced priorities, particularly as the government shutdown enters its second month. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump on social media, stating, ‘Donald Trump actually cares more about his toilet than he does about fixing your healthcare.’ Democrats are pushing to renew expiring health insurance subsidies, which they argue are critical for American families, while Republicans have deferred discussions until the government reopens.
Trump’s penchant for opulent design has also extended to the Oval Office, where he has added gold-framed portraits, mirrors, and a gold leaf presidential seal on the ceiling. As the debate over the White House’s transformation continues, the renovations remain a contentious symbol of Trump’s presidency.