Trump declares Oval Office a national monument after midterms defeat, vows to protect gilded makeover

On November 6, US President Donald Trump signed an order designating the Oval Office as a national monument, intensifying his efforts to enhance the aesthetics of the White House following a significant loss in the midterms for his Republican Party. Critics argued that Trump was sidestepping voter concerns regarding the Iran war and the cost of living, instead concentrating on numerous construction and renovation projects within the nation's capital.

Contrary to the outcome of Democrats securing control of both the House and Senate of the US Congress, Trump chose to focus on the Oval Office and its neighboring Cabinet Room, adorned with gold decorations since he assumed office last year. The proclamation declared that the Oval Office and Cabinet Room would "make it impossible for anybody ever to destroy this incredible space", preventing any future construction activity in these rooms.

Trump stated, "It won’t be able to be taken down, destroyed, touched, or anything else. It’s called actually a national monument." The move sparked speculation that Trump might undertake further renovations in the West Wing, following hints that he might relocate reporters from the renowned briefing room situated near the Oval. Trump's signing of the order within the Oval Office was not covered by major US networks, as he has barred CNN from joining the "pool" of television stations that report on White House events.

In a reference to the midterms, Trump donned a red baseball cap adorned with the word "veto" on the Resolute Desk in front of him. The 80-year-old Republican has previously threatened to veto Democratic legislation but has also indicated his willingness to collaborate with the opposing party.