First Lady Melania Trump Criticized Over Reaction to White House Renovation

The First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, finds herself in the midst of a controversy concerning her husband’s decision to demolish parts of the White House. This decision is part of President Donald Trump’s ambitious $300 million restoration, which involves the removal of the historic East Wing to make way for a new presidential ballroom.

The construction has caused significant disruption. It has temporarily halted White House tours and led to the relocation of several staff offices, and importantly, it has also affected Melania’s team. Her employees are being relocated to various parts of the White House, including the South Mezzanine, China Room, Library, and Vermeil Room.

Melania Trump has spent much of President Trump’s second term residing in New York and Palm Beach, distancing herself from the ongoing changes in Washington. Unlike her active participation during her husband’s first term, particularly in projects like the Blue Room renovation, establishing a new tennis pavilion, and updating the Rose Garden, she has remained detached from the current undertaking.

A Shift in the Role of the First Lady

Commenting on the situation, Kate Andersen Brower, author of “First Women,” remarked to CNN, “Watching the demolition feels symbolic of how the role of the first lady is diminishing.” She continued, “Melania has made it clear she’s diverging from the traditional role, much like her husband.”

On social media, former First Lady Hillary Clinton expressed her dissatisfaction with the demolition by stating, “It’s not his house. It’s your house. And he’s tearing it down.” This criticism aligns with public sentiment against the costly renovations.

The renovation’s budget has climbed to an eye-popping $300 million, which is $100 million more than what was initially planned, intensifying public disapproval.

The White House Responds to the Outcry

In light of the ongoing backlash, the White House released a statement defending the renovation. It described critics as “unhinged leftists” who are quick to attack President Trump’s “visionary addition,” which it claims weaves into the rich tapestry of historical renovations by past U.S. Presidents.

The statement emphasized that Trump’s updates are in keeping with the traditions of earlier presidents who sought to improve the White House.