Chicago – August 07, 2026
Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s gold-heavy White House makeover, saying its “tackied up” décor is reminiscent of the lavish palaces of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.
In an interview published Friday on Kara Swisher’s “Pivot” podcast, Clinton said the renovations were “sad” and “gaudy,” arguing they reflected what she described as Trump’s narcissistic personality and desire to feel important. She pointed specifically to gold embellishments covering walls and furnishings in the Oval Office.
Clinton recalled visiting Baghdad after Hussein’s fall and holding meetings in some of his palaces. She said those interiors resembled what is seen inside the White House, calling the comparison “outrageous.”
Trump has personalized the White House during his second term, adding artwork, statues, portraits and gold details throughout the complex, according to Business Insider. The Oval Office reportedly includes gold urns, wall medallions and decorative pieces from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle defended the work, describing the renovations as efforts to “beautify” the People’s House as the US prepares to mark its 250th anniversary.
The dispute highlights arguments over presidential style, historical preservation and the symbolic character of the nation’s most recognizable building.
