Trump’s ballroom blitz prompts chorus of disgust: ‘The perfect symbol’

The word “Trump” resplendent in large capital letters across the top was followed by “the White House” in lurid purple cursive, then under it, oscillatory: “hotel casino golf course,” and below that, businesslike: “presidential suite.” The parody envisioned golden pillars, a massive crystal chandelier, and two near-naked women at reception.

Fourteen years later, Obama’s vision increasingly seems prophetic as Trump, twice elected and hellbent on expanding presidential power, slaps his golden name all over the White House. Most dramatically, this week he dispatched a wrecking crew to rip off the facade of the East Wing so that he can build a $250m ballroom.

The image of broken masonry, rubble, and steel wires at America’s most famous address was straight from a disaster movie and had an impact even on people who have become inured to shrugging off whatever provocative antics Trump has chosen to serve up. The chorus of disgust was led by White House alumni and presidential historians.