President Donald Trump has unveiled a renovated Lincoln Bedroom bathroom in the White House, featuring black and white marble and gold fixtures, as part of his ongoing efforts to remodel the presidential residence. The announcement, made via social media, highlights Trump’s push to personalize the historic building while facing criticism over priorities during a government shutdown.
Trump shared before and after photos on Truth Social, stating that the previous art deco green tile style from the 1940s was “totally inappropriate for the Lincoln Era.” He replaced it with polished statuary marble, which he claimed could be the original material, and added gold accents to the sink, bathtub faucet, and shower door. A chandelier and a plush white robe with the presidential seal on a golden hook completed the luxurious update, with Trump emphasizing the historical appropriateness of the changes.
The Lincoln Bathroom is part of the suite that served as Abraham Lincoln’s office and cabinet room, later renovated during Harry Truman’s presidency in the late 1940s. Trump argued that the new design better reflects the 19th-century aesthetic, though historical records indicate the original furnishings were more subdued. The White House confirmed the renovation was privately funded at no cost to taxpayers, aligning with Trump’s pattern of using donor money for such projects.
This renovation is one of several changes Trump has implemented to leave his mark on the White House. Earlier this year, he demolished the East Wing to make way for a new ballroom, paved over the Rose Garden grass with stone, and adorned the Oval Office with gold leaf and additional portraits. Trump has justified these moves as practical improvements, such as preventing high heels from sinking into grass or avoiding temporary tents during events.
Conservation groups and political opponents have criticized the renovations as excessive and misaligned with the White House’s classical style. They argue that Trump should have sought public review for significant alterations, with some labeling the changes tasteless and distracting from pressing national issues. The White House responded by accusing “unhinged leftists” of opposing visionary additions.
Amid an ongoing government shutdown, Democrats have seized on the bathroom reveal to highlight what they see as misplaced priorities. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer remarked that Trump “cares more about his toilet than he does about fixing your healthcare,” while former President Barack Obama mocked the focus on renovations over resolving the shutdown. The political fallout underscores deep divisions over Trump’s governance style.
Trump has also taken steps to expedite future projects, such as firing members of the Commission of Fine Arts and appointing allies to the National Capital Planning Commission. These actions suggest a continued effort to reshape Washington, D.C., with plans including a new arch monument for the country’s 250th anniversary and ongoing work at the Kennedy Center.
As the renovations proceed, they symbolize Trump’s desire to imprint his legacy on the nation’s symbols, but they also fuel debates over historical preservation and executive priorities. The controversy is likely to persist as Trump balances personal projects with broader political challenges, leaving a lasting impact on the White House’s physical and political landscape.