There are so many projects Melania Trump could work on right now involving coronavirus. But instead, during what could be her last summer in the White House, she has decided to focus her attention on “a significant renewal of the White House Rose Garden.“ That’s right, she has promised us a new Rose Garden. That should put the millions of Americans impacted by COVID-19 right at ease. During her announcement, she did take time to acknowledge “difficult times.”
The first lady added: “The very act of planting a garden involves hard work and hope in the possibility of a bright future. Preserving the history and beauty of the White House and its grounds is a testament to our nation’s commitment to the care of this landscape and our dedication to American ideals, safeguarding them for our children and their children for generations to come.”
New York Times reporter Katie Rogers is one of the many people today, pointing out some hypocrisy in that statement:
Mrs. Trump’s husband has not exactly focused on those principles during his many appearances in the Rose Garden, repeatedly breaking norms on how presidents use the space as it has become his preferred venue for announcing executive actions, boasting about the economy and extending political battles.
Over the course of his term, President Trump has ushered reporters into the garden in 40-degree weather to rail against Democratic leaders and announce an end to a record-length government shutdown. He has hosted gatherings with his fans, who have picked profanity-laced fights with journalists among the roses.
Back in March, early on during the pandemic, Melania Trump also announced progress on a (misspelled) tennis pavilion.
No word on where the tennis pavilion progress stands now. Also, no information has been released on the cost of either project. Though the press release does state “The project is supported by the National Park Service, who has cared for the White House and its grounds since 1933, and funded with private donations.”