Trump highlights White House renovations amid criticism

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that renovations at the White House are improving the historic building after what he described as years of poor upkeep. In a post on Truth Social, he said the residence was in bad condition and praised the Department of the Interior and contractors for the work. Trump said the White House exterior and interior needed significant attention, while also noting that he enjoys overseeing renovation projects when possible. His comments come as the administration has carried out a series of changes to the property, including work on the North Portico, the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, the Rose Garden, and plans for a new ballroom. The renovation efforts have drawn criticism from preservation advocates and some legal challenges. The administration has also pushed other makeover projects in Washington, including work related to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and the Kennedy Center, as well as proposals for a triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery and a National Garden of American Heroes.