Trump Makes Oval Office a National Monument — SkimNews
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- Trump signed an order on Thursday, November 5, 2026, designating the Oval Office as a national monument; The Hill likewise described the move as a proclamation covering the Oval Office and Cabinet Room.
- Oval Office, which Trump had adorned with gold ornaments since returning to power the previous year, and the neighboring Cabinet Room would be protected from building work by future presidents.
- Democrats won the House of Representatives and Senate in the November 4 midterms, and Trump virtually ignored the result, instead showcasing construction on a new White House ballroom.
- Trump faced criticism for ignoring voter concerns over the Iran war and affordability before the midterms while focusing on construction and renovation projects in the capital.
- CNN had been banned from the rotating White House television pool, and major U.S. networks did not broadcast the order-signing.
- Resolute Desk held a red baseball cap reading “veto” as Trump threatened to block Democratic legislation with presidential powers, while saying he was ready to work with the rival party.
Why it matters: Trump’s November 5 order gives the Oval Office and Cabinet Room protection from building work by future presidents, locking in two rooms of his White House renovation. With Democrats now controlling both chambers after the midterms, the contrast is concrete: he shielded the décor while threatening to use his veto power against Democratic legislation.
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