The White House renovations underway in August while President Donald Trump had a working vacation at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, are done and have been revealed to Americans.
The $1.965 million renovations were approved during former President Barack Obama’s tenure in office, but were scheduled to coincide with a traditional break time when the president would typically be away on vacation, CNN reported.
Trump picked out some of the finishes, furniture, and wallpapers that would be used in the renovations from among several choices presented to him, and requested that all of the materials used be made in America, CNN reported. Several minority-owned and female-owned small businesses contributed to the renovations as well.
Most of Trump’s choices were classic in nature and aimed to emphasize the history and elegance of the building, Deputy Press Secretary Lindsay Walters told reporters during a Wednesday tour. Another White House official said Trump “wanted to bring back the luster and glory of the White House,” CNN reported.
The renovations took place nearly 24 hours a day from Aug. 4 to Aug. 20 and included replacement of the HVAC and ventilation systems, carpeting and refinishing some hardwood floors, wallpaper, and adding seating to several areas. Outside, the portico steps were repaired for the first time since 1952, and lighting was added to the Rose Garden for nighttime events, CBS News reported.
The renovations were not related to reports that Trump had called the White House “a dump,” which he vehemently denied on social media.
While a few Twitter followers complimented the renovations, most complained about them, the president, and the use of taxpayer dollars.