Quick Hit:

President Donald Trump revealed Tuesday that he’s donating his presidential paycheck to the White House Historical Association. The move continues his tradition of forgoing a government salary, and it comes as Trump carries out sweeping renovations to restore beauty and grandeur to the White House.

Key Details:

• Trump announced the donation in a Truth Social post, writing, “I am proud to be the only President (with the possible exception of the Late, Great George Washington) to donate my Salary.”
• He noted that major restoration and beautification projects are underway at the White House, including upgrades not seen “since its original creation.”
• Among the improvements are two massive flagpoles on the North and South Lawns, a new patio in the Rose Garden, and plans for a privately funded East Wing ballroom.

Diving Deeper:

President Donald Trump on Tuesday reaffirmed his commitment to restoring national pride and tradition by donating the first presidential paycheck of his second term to the White House Historical Association. “My first ‘Paycheck’ went to the White House Historical Association, as we make much needed renovations to the beautiful ‘People’s House,’” he wrote on Truth Social. “Great improvements and beautification is taking place at the White House, at levels not seen since its original creation.”

The donation follows Trump’s visit to the Association’s gift shop earlier this week, and reflects a continuation of his first-term practice of donating his presidential salary — a gesture he has described as a patriotic duty.

Over the past year, Trump has led an effort to refurbish and enhance the White House grounds. He personally funded the installation of two nearly 100-foot flagpoles flanking the North and South Lawns, designed to evoke a sense of historic dignity. A new patio in the Rose Garden now provides better accommodations for large events, particularly on the North Lawn.

But the most ambitious project is yet to come: Trump is planning a privately funded ballroom addition off the East Room — a grand reception space that he says will serve the American people for generations. The expansion is expected to enhance the White House’s hosting capacity for state functions, ceremonies, and public events.

Inside the building, Trump has also overseen a visual transformation of the Oval Office. Gold trim now lines the room’s architectural features, and portraits of past presidents hang prominently throughout. The fireplace mantle has been redecorated with gilded urns and vases, creating what visitors have described as a more dignified, stately appearance.

While other presidents accepted their salaries without much attention, Trump has made his salary donations — and his restoration efforts — a central symbol of his commitment to American heritage. With new additions in the works and support from donors and dignitaries alike, the “People’s House” is once again being reimagined to reflect the strength and beauty of the nation it represents.