Donald Trump Tries to Convince America Tacky MAGA Makeovers Are Good

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump promoted ongoing renovation projects, including a new White House ballroom and the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, on Truth Social, sharing images and updates about their progress.
• The ballroom's cost has doubled from an initial $200 million to $400 million, which Trump attributed to increased size and quality, while Senate Republicans are seeking about $1 billion in taxpayer funds for related security upgrades.
• The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool renovation, costing $6.9 million, was awarded without a competitive bid to a company previously involved with Trump’s golf course, with the project expedited to be completed before the 250th anniversary celebrations on July 4th.
• Additional Trump-led renovations in Washington, D.C., include a redesigned Rose Garden patio, a marble Lincoln Bathroom, a "Presidential Walk of Fame" in the West Wing Colonnade, and plans for a gold-accented 250-foot Triumphal Arch near Arlington National Cemetery.
• Trump has also personalized various government sites by adding his name to prominent institutions and displaying banners with his image at federal buildings, reflecting a broader pattern of self-branding in his renovation efforts.