Trump Administration Spends $5 Million on Gold Leaf for 4 Statues

4 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · May 31

$5 million in taxpayer money is being used to cover four bronze statues in Washington with 23.75-karat gold leaf, according to the report.
The spending comes as Trump has repeatedly promoted lavish White House and capital projects, including a ballroom and a June 14 UFC event on the White House grounds.
The opinion piece frames the gold-leaf project against voter frustration over living costs and the economic toll of the Iran war, citing polls showing weak approval and broad blame directed at Trump.
June 14 also marks Trump's 80th birthday, underscoring the report's broader argument that the administration is prioritizing spectacle over household economic strain.

What is the long-term value of spending millions on capital beautification during a period of economic strain?

Can grand national celebrations successfully unite the public during a time of widespread financial anxiety?

How will the new White House ballroom balance modern security needs with the capital's historic architectural plan?