Trump Signs Executive Order Declaring Oval Office a National Monument

WASHINGTON, Nov 6 (OPA) — WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday designating the White House Oval Office as a national monument. Speaking to reporters, Trump stated the measure will protect the historic space from being altered or dismantled by future leaders. The order tasks the National Park Service with maintaining the office to preserve its architectural integrity.

"We're making it a national monument, and it will not be allowed to be touched by anybody, destroyed, ripped down by stupid people, in order to build something in a slightly different shape," Trump said. The document permits ordinary security modifications and redecorating that do not impair the historic structure, while seeking to permanently cement the changes implemented during his second term.

The White House and the entire complex already hold designation as a National Historic Landmark. Congress previously established exemptions within the National Historic Preservation Act to grant presidents flexibility for necessary structural modifications. The current Oval Office structure dates back to the early 1930s under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Preservationists have challenged the legal weight and motivation behind the directive. Greg Werkheiser of Cultural Heritage Partners criticized the announcement as hypocritical, pointing to ongoing construction projects across Washington and the recent demolition of the White House East Wing without congressional approval. Legal experts note that temporary decor remains at a president's discretion, while permanent architectural mandates face complex federal regulations.