What’s Behind President Trump’s Aesthetic?
We take a look at what’s driving the makeover, and we want to hear from you: How do you interpret Trump’s visual choices?
December 11, 2025
54 min
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3,122 of 3,393
December 11, 2025
What’s Behind President Trump’s Aesthetic?
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What’s Behind President Trump’s Aesthetic?
Summary
The White House says it’s submitting plans this month for its 90,000 square-foot gold-studded ballroom which will be bigger than the White House while Democrats call for inquiries into the funding of the project. Meanwhile, the Oval Office gleams with gold adornments, and an executive order decrees classical architecture for all federal buildings. Design historians say Trump is reshaping America’s visual identity in his own image, breaking with centuries of presidential restraint. We take a look at what’s driving the makeover, and we want to hear from you: How do you interpret Trump’s visual choices?
Guests:
Naftali Bendavid, senior national political correspondent, The Washington Post
Jessica Winegar, professor, Northwestern University
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