Politics

Trump Declares Oval Office a National Monument

By AFP

On Thursday, November 5, 2026, President Donald Trump signed an order designating the Oval Office as a national monument. The move follows a midterm election loss for the Republican Party, in which Democrats gained control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Trump’s announcement came a day after the election results, during which he focused on construction work at the White House, including a new ballroom. He said the proclamation would protect the Oval Office and the adjacent Cabinet Room from future alterations, stating, “It won’t be able to be taken down, destroyed, touched, or anything else. It’s called actually a national monument.” Trump also hinted at possible future work on the West Wing, after suggesting reporters might be moved from the briefing room near the Oval. The signing was not televised on major U.S. networks, as Trump has excluded CNN from the White House’s rotating pool of outlets. He did, however, display a red baseball cap with the word “veto” on the Resolute Desk in front of him, acknowledging the midterm outcome. The 80‑year‑old Republican has threatened to use his powers to block Democratic legislation while also saying he is ready to work with the rival party. Published – November 6, 2026 04:36 am IST