US President Donald Trump has unveiled renovations to the bathroom in the Lincoln Bedroom, as his remodelling of the White House continues. Trump shared photos of the new bathroom on social media, stating it had been renovated in the 1940s in an art deco green tile style, which was totally inappropriate for the Lincoln Era. He claimed the new black and white marble is very appropriate for the time of Abraham Lincoln and, in fact, could be the marble that was originally there! It is the latest change Trump has made to the White House this year, with his multi-million dollar ballroom addition to the East Wing already stirring debate.
The bathroom is part of a revered office space originally revamped by President Harry Truman in the late 1940s. Significant changes from the old design include gold fixtures, accents for the sink, bathtub faucet, shower door, and a chandelier that now adorn the space.
The White House noted that these renovations were privately funded, incurring no costs to the taxpayer. Nevertheless, critics—including conservation groups and political opponents—have expressed concern that Trump's alterations prioritize personal luxury over historical preservation, especially as vital government functions remain unresolved amidst a continuing shutdown.
Notably, Trump's renovation shifts have sparked public discontent, with remarks from key Democratic figures highlighting a perceived disconnect between the administration's focus on aesthetic changes and pressing national issues, such as health care and economic stability. As the spotlight continues to shine on these extravagant renovations, the debate about the direction of the White House and its alignment with American history intensifies.
