Washington, D.C. – November 5, 2025 – A new gilded sign adorning the Oval Office has sparked intense backlash from lawmakers and critics, highlighting the growing tensions around the ongoing government shutdown. The sign, written in gold cursive script, is the latest addition to the controversial renovations underway at the White House under Donald Trump’s administration, drawing criticism for its extravagance amidst widespread government dysfunction.
What Happened
This week, images began circulating of a new sign affixed to the door of the Oval Office, reading “The Oval Office” in gold cursive script. The move has prompted fierce reactions from lawmakers, particularly in light of the ongoing government shutdown, which has severely impacted services like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
As a result of the shutdown, the government is set to distribute only half of the typical benefits for SNAP this month, leaving millions of Americans in precarious financial positions. Many lawmakers have criticized the gilded sign as an inappropriate and tone-deaf gesture during a time of economic hardship for many families across the country.
Lawmaker Reactions
Pennsylvania Congressman Malcolm Kenyatta responded to the news with a blunt assessment, calling the new sign “shit” while noting the hardships faced by millions of Americans, including those relying on SNAP. “43 million Americans don’t have access to SNAP and are weeks away from health care costs exploding even more,” he wrote, highlighting the contrast between the president’s focus on luxury and the struggles of everyday citizens.
Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware also criticized the timing, stating, “I wish they would focus on helping struggling Americans, but this isn’t a good sign.” The senator’s comments underscore the frustration many feel as the White House undertakes lavish renovations while critical social programs face cuts.
A History of Extravagance
The controversial demolition of the East Wing to make room for a new $300 million ballroom last month added fuel to the fire, with many questioning the priorities of the Trump administration. A poll from the Washington Post, ABC News, and Ipsos found that over half of Americans disapproved of the ongoing renovations, which some see as an excessive display of wealth during a time of national crisis.
Florida Congressman Jared Moskowitz weighed in humorously, referencing the previous controversy surrounding the East Wing demolition: “Good, new signage means he won’t knock it down,” he quipped, referencing the previous destruction of the East Wing and sarcastically suggesting that the new sign may at least be spared.
Satirical Response from Gavin Newsom
In a lighthearted jab at Trump’s expensive White House changes, California Governor Gavin Newsom‘s office posted a doctored image of the new sign on social media, mocking the lavish renovations. The altered image read “Live, laugh, LOSE” instead of the traditional “Oval Office,” poking fun at Trump’s priorities during the ongoing shutdown.
Ongoing Tensions and Criticism
The addition of the gilded sign and the ongoing renovations at the White House come at a time of heightened national tension. The longest government shutdown in U.S. history continues to affect millions, with many facing disruptions to essential services like food assistance and healthcare. As Trump’s White House focuses on grandiose projects, critics argue that it highlights a growing divide between the administration’s priorities and the needs of everyday Americans.
Closing
The new Oval Office sign and the ongoing renovations have drawn significant criticism, with many questioning the message being sent during such a critical time in the U.S. The contrast between luxury and hardship has spurred outrage, as lawmakers and citizens alike call for more attention to the issues that directly affect people’s lives, rather than symbols of excess and extravagance.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
