Trump Signs Proclamation Making the Oval Office a National Monument
President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Thursday designating the Oval Office, the Outer Oval Office and the Cabinet Room as a national monument and federal landmark, a move intended to preserve the spaces and prevent future administrations from altering them.
Trump told reporters from the Oval Office that it will not be able to be taken down, destroyed or touched. In his words, it is called a national monument, it is a federal landmark, and when completed it will make it impossible for anybody ever to destroy this incredible space.
The announcement came two days after the midterm elections, in which Democrats won enough seats to gain control of Congress.
The proclamation is part of a broader series of post-election public appearances highlighting White House construction initiatives.
On Monday, Trump detailed planned updates during remarks in front of the Reflecting Pool. On Wednesday, he held a press briefing at the construction site of a new White House ballroom.
Of the ballroom project, Trump has said it is a gift to America, funded by patriots, providing ample space for up to 2,000 guests and ensuring the safety of leaders for generations to come.
Since returning to office in 2025, Trump has prioritised several high-profile architectural and cultural projects, including a proposed 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery and proposals to rename and restructure the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
