NEED TO KNOW
- Trump installs cursive gold “Oval Office” sign during record shutdown.
- SNAP Benefits cut in half while White House property taxes triple overnight.
- Critics say the president is “gilding America’s decline in real time.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump is under fire after installing a gold “Oval Office” sign beside his door during the government shutdown. Critics say the sign costs more than what the nation will spend on food assistance this month.
The shiny cursive script was unveiled Monday as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program confirmed it will distribute half of its usual benefits. Photos of the gold sign flooded social media within hours, sparking outrage and a few investment tips from gold bugs. The White House did not comment on the cost, but officials reportedly described it as “a tasteful symbol of strength, like Fort Knox, but with better lighting.”
Golden Touch, Empty Plates
While Trump praised the new sign as “luxury that inspires confidence,” lawmakers called it a “slap in the face” to families missing paychecks and meals. Representative Malcolm Kenyatta said the contrast was “a perfect metaphor for this administration: gold trim on an empty pantry.”
Property tax officials in D.C. have reportedly reassessed the White House value after the installation. “It’s considered a significant upgrade,” one assessor said. “Not everyone installs a casino logo on a national landmark.” The change could increase annual taxes by millions, though staff say the president plans to deduct it as “business branding.”
Optics and Irony
Even Trump’s supporters seemed unsure. “It’s beautiful, but maybe bad timing,” one visitor said while shielding their eyes from the glare. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester agreed, saying, “If the goal was to blind America to poverty, it’s working.”
Despite the backlash, Trump insisted the gold sign was “for the people.” He claimed it would “create jobs” by encouraging Americans to “go for gold too.” Economists later clarified that hunger, not signage, remains the leading motivator for work participation.
The new Oval Office décor joins the president’s expanding list of White House improvements, including a $300 million ballroom currently under construction. Critics worry the additions may raise property taxes nationwide. “If he keeps adding gold, Zillow will classify the White House as a luxury resort,” one analyst said.
If America ever goes broke, at least the foreclosure will look fabulous.
Rachel Kaye
