Obama mocks Trump’s White House renovations at Ohio rally

Former President Barack Obama used a rally in Cleveland, Ohio, on Saturday to lampoon President Donald Trump’s recent White House renovation efforts. Speaking in support of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton and Senate candidate Sherrod Brown, Obama said the president seemed more interested in home improvements than on policy, adding, "> I mean, I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but he seems very focused on home renovations. He should be on HGTV."

He referenced the Rose Garden’s new limestone patio, an upgraded granite helipad and a permanent ballroom, describing the changes as, "> He’s got the White House looking like Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory."

The renovations, according to White House officials, include functional upgrades: the Rose Garden’s central lawn was replaced with limestone paving for outdoor events while retaining perimeter roses; a granite helipad bearing the presidential seal was inaugurated in September; and a new ballroom is intended to provide a secure, permanent venue for large official functions, addressing a long-standing reliance on temporary tents.

Obama also linked the renovations to broader criticisms of the Trump administration, accusing the president of starting an unnecessary war in Iran that raised energy costs and defending the nuclear agreement negotiated during his own tenure. He urged Ohio voters to hold Republicans accountable in the upcoming midterm elections.

The White House did not respond to requests for comment.