Jack White Critiques Trump’s Gold-Plated Oval Office

Musician Jack White has expressed his disapproval of President Donald Trump’s ostentatious alterations to the White House’s Oval Office following a recent photograph of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meeting with Trump. The image showcases a striking golden color scheme, with both leaders seated in gold chairs surrounded by golden trinkets, gilded paintings, and ornate statues, highlighting a lavish aesthetic in one of the world’s most iconic rooms.

Jack White’s Reaction to the Decor

White took to Instagram to share his disdain for the transformed Oval Office. He commented on the photo, stating, “Look at how disgusting Trump has transformed the historic White House. It’s now a vulgar, gold leafed and gaudy professional wrestler’s dressing room. Can’t wait for the UFC match on the front lawn too.”

He further criticized Trump, saying, “He’s almost fully achieved the movie Idiocracy. Look at his disgusting taste. Would you even buy a used car from this conman, let alone give him the nuclear codes? A gold plated Trump bible would look perfect up on that mantle with a pair of Trump shoes on either side, wouldn’t it? What an embarrassment to American history.”

In a final dig, White pointed out, “Also pictured in this photograph, a REAL leader of a nation in a black suit.”

Response from the White House

White’s remarks caught the attention of White House Communications Director Steven Cheung, who responded through The Daily Beast. Cheung dismissed White as “a washed up, has-been loser posting drivel on social media because he clearly has ample time on his hands due to his stalled career.”

He continued, “It’s apparent he’s been masquerading as a real artist, because he fails to appreciate, and quite frankly disrespects, the splendor and significance of the Oval Office inside of ‘The People’s House.’”

Trump’s Changes to the Oval Office

Business Insider reports that since assuming office, Trump has made several notable updates to the Oval Office’s decor. Among these are a lighter rug featuring the presidential seal and olive branches—a symbol of peace—that was also used during his first term.

Trump has added military flags and a range of gold embellishments, including gold detailing around the presidential seal on the ceiling. Additional decor includes gold cherubs, vases, and urns sourced from his Mar-a-Lago estate, contributing to the office’s lavish appearance.

Jack White’s History with Trump

Jack White’s animosity towards President Trump is well-documented. In response to the use of his band White Stripes’ song “Seven Nation Army” in a promotional video featuring Trump, White stated on Instagram, “Oh….Don’t even think about using my music you fascists. Lawsuit coming from my lawyers about this (to add to your 5 thousand others).”

Although he filed a lawsuit against Trump in September 2024, it was later dropped in November of the same year. White has consistently criticized Trump’s celebrity supporters and has vocally defended President Zelensky amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Conclusion

Jack White’s sharp critique of Trump’s decor choices in the Oval Office reflects not only his personal aesthetic preferences but also his broader concerns about the implications of Trump’s presidency. The clash of opinions between White and White House officials underscores the significant cultural and political divides that characterize contemporary American society.

FAQs

What did Jack White criticize about the Oval Office decor?

Jack White criticized the Oval Office for being transformed into a “vulgar, gold leafed and gaudy” space, comparing it to a professional wrestler’s dressing room.

How did the White House respond to Jack White’s comments?

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung dismissed White as a “washed up, has-been loser” and accused him of disrespecting the significance of the Oval Office.

What changes did Trump make to the Oval Office decor?

Trump made several changes, including a lighter rug with the presidential seal, military flags, and numerous gold embellishments sourced from his Mar-a-Lago estate.

What is Jack White’s history with Donald Trump?

Jack White has publicly denounced Trump on multiple occasions, including a threat of legal action over the unauthorized use of his music in a Trump promotional video.