Bill Clinton criticizes Trump’s White House renovations, including the changed Rose Garden

Clinton weighs in on garden

Former Democratic President Bill Clinton has voiced displeasure with Donald Trump’s renovations at the White House. His criticism concerns the Rose Garden and the changes made to the space.

The garden’s lawn was paved over, and tables with yellow-and-white striped umbrellas now sit on the concrete. The umbrellas recall those at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

A long-standing White House space

The Rose Garden became part of the White House in 1903 and has been renovated more than once since. It has hosted press conferences and other gatherings. Trump undertook the patio project in summer 2025. The changes replace the garden’s former grassy area with a paved setting.

Campaigning in Florida

Clinton was in Florida this week campaigning for David Jolly, a former Democratic congressman seeking the governorship. Jolly is running against Republican Congressman Byron Donalds. Trump campaigned for Donalds in Fort Myers on Friday. The appearance was part of a nationwide tour urging supporters to vote Republican and retain control of Congress in November’s midterm elections.

Other construction plans

The planned arch would have a golden winged figure on top, with two gilded eagles beside it. The article also notes public concerns about Trump’s priorities as he pursues real-estate projects.