Trump slams 'deplorable condition' of WH exterior as he fortifies entrance amid security concerns

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump posted photographs of the White House's main entrance on Truth Social on Saturday, July 11, calling its condition "deplorable" and vowing to restore the building to a level of beauty "never seen before," as workers continue a broad renovation effort that now includes fortifying the North Portico amid alleged threats from Iranian factions.

The 80-year-old's latest project is expected to run until at least mid-September, according to CNN.

North Portico being fortified amid Iranian threat concerns

Sharing two photos, Trump wrote, "This is the horrible front of the White House, and it's been like that for years. The condition is deplorable, just like our Country was when I inherited it from Sleepy Joe Biden."

He continued, "The Radical Left Dumocrats criticize me for spending so much time bringing our White House back to the Glory of 100 years ago — Actually, it will be far better than that, and they will not shame us for bringing our Great and Brilliant Monuments to the past and the future back to levels never seen before.”

“The White House, as you can see in the before pictures attached, was an embarrassment. In a short period of time, it will be a Symbol of Extraordinary Beauty and Pride!" Trump concluded. 

Workers are currently repairing exterior columns of the White House at Trump’s request, and the current phase of construction has the North Portico entrance covered in scaffolding and a tarp.

The work also includes security upgrades the US Secret Service has long wanted to bolster the main entrance amid alleged threats to Trump’s life by Iranian factions, CNN reported. The project is due to run until at least mid-September.

Trump has also cited security concerns in arguing for the completion of a planned 90,000-square-foot ballroom complex on the White House grounds, which he has said will include a sophisticated drone detection port, sniper perches and a secure underground bunker.

Sweeping renovations already completed across White House

This present work is part of a broader transformation Trump has started in the White House since returning to the office in January 2025.

He has overseen one of the most extensive makeovers of the building in decades, changing both the interior and exterior.

Completed renovations include restoring the Rose Garden to a traditional design after modifications made during the Biden administration and an extensive redecoration of the Oval Office with extensive gold accents and new furnishings.

The Blue Room, the Red Room and other state rooms have seen a makeover with period-appropriate furniture and restored architectural details on many floors of the residence, according to USA Today.

Trump has also pushed to restore and clean many of Washington's national monuments as part of a broader effort he has described as making the capital reflect the dignity of the country it represents. The White House said more announcements related to the building's restoration are expected before the end of the summer.