The White House Rose Garden, a symbol of presidential history and tradition, is currently undergoing a dramatic transformation, sparking widespread public backlash. New images show the once-lush garden overtaken by gravel, construction equipment, and bulldozers as part of a controversial redesign launched by President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump on June 9. Trump defended the changes, citing safety concerns such as slippery terrain and difficulty for women wearing high heels during press events. The limestone border added during Melania’s 2020 redesign has been removed, and much of the garden’s central greenery has been replaced by a hard concrete surface.

Critics argue that the overhaul erases key elements of American heritage, particularly the original Rose Garden layout linked to President John F. Kennedy. Social media users voiced outrage, calling the transformation “absolutely crazy” and unnecessary. The criticism is reminiscent of the backlash Melania faced during her first redesign in 2020, which was labeled “grim” by presidential historian Michael Beschloss. Meanwhile, the renovations extend beyond the garden, with plans for a new White House ballroom and towering flagpoles on both the North and South Lawns. Trump claims he is personally funding the updates, which he believes are long overdue. Supporters say the improvements enhance functionality, but detractors worry they permanently alter historic landmarks. Regardless of public opinion, the Trumps are once again putting a personal stamp on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

“White House Rose Garden gone. Absolutely crazy,” another user posted.