Trump signs order preventing future presidents from changing Oval Office

Donald Trump, the 45th US President, has signed an executive order that aims to prevent future presidents from making certain modifications to the White House Oval Office. The order designates the Oval Office and certain surrounding rooms as a national monument, preventing any alterations that could damage the historic structure or architectural character.

Trump, a former real estate mogul, significantly changed the appearance of the Oval Office during his second term, adding numerous gold features. He described the office as "badly damaged" due to broken windows, cracked walls, and damaged stone. The order allows the President to redecorate the monument, select furnishings, and make operational and security modifications without substantially impairing the monument's historic structure or architectural character.

Trump claimed that the order would "make it impossible for anybody ever to destroy this incredible space". The White House is already designated as a National Historic Landmark, providing existing protections against sudden changes. The order was approved by the US Congress, allowing large construction projects to proceed. The current Oval Office was established in the early 1930s, following its conception by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Experts suggest that temporary alterations like furniture and decor are within the President's discretion, as long as they do not damage permanent art and architecture.