Oval Office becomes monument as trump signs order to prevent future presidents from changing its historic character
Order declares rooms a monument
Trump signed the order on Thursday. It designates the Oval Office and some surrounding rooms as a national monument. Trump said, “We’re making it a national monument,” and described the space as a symbol of the country. He said visiting world leaders had praised his decorative changes.
Preservation rules and renovation plans
The order directs the National Park Service to maintain the office in a way that safeguards its historic character, architectural integrity and connection to the presidency. The White House is already a National Historic Landmark. However, Congress has created an exemption to the National Historic Preservation Act so presidents can make changes considered necessary.
Criticism over Trump’s changes
The project has not been approved by Congress, but construction has continued, with plans for a new ballroom. Other changes described in the report include a gold plaque outside the Oval Office, paving over the Rose Garden and a new helicopter pad.
Werkheiser called the order “hypocrisy,” citing Trump’s other Washington projects, including work on the Kennedy Center and a proposed triumphal arch. In October, Trump said the Oval Office might need to be torn down over security concerns raised by the Secret Service.
Key points
- Trump’s order names the Oval Office and nearby rooms as national monuments.
- The National Park Service is instructed to protect the office’s historic character and architecture.
- Presidents retain an exemption under preservation law for needed changes.
- Ballroom construction plans have continued despite not receiving congressional approval.