It looks like former President Donald Trump wants to bring a little bit of Palm Beach flair to Pennsylvania Avenue. Reports say he’s eyeing a redesign of the iconic White House Rose Garden, and—surprise, surprise—he’s drawing inspiration straight from his Mar-a-Lago estate. If you’re picturing gold accents and tropical vibes, you’re on the right track.

So, what’s the plan? Insiders say Trump’s vision includes gold-trimmed columns (because, obviously), bright tropical flowers, and some fancy stone pathways that would fit right in at his Florida getaway. If there’s one thing we know about Trump, it’s that he loves a bold aesthetic—subtlety, not so much. He reportedly thinks the garden could use a little more pizzazz to match his signature style.

But before we dive into the drama, let’s talk history. The Rose Garden isn’t just a pretty patch of grass—it’s a piece of American heritage. First Lady Ellen Wilson planted the seeds back in 1913, and Jackie Kennedy gave it a glow-up in 1962, creating the design we know and love today. Over the decades, it’s played host to presidential speeches, state dinners, and a few surprise press conferences (remember that one with the fly?).

Naturally, the redesign news has sparked some buzz—and not just from the bees. Critics are already clutching their pearls. Their biggest fear? That Trump’s Mar-a-Lago-inspired makeover might bulldoze over decades of history. “The garden doesn’t need gold trim!” they argue. Plus, memories of the 2020 renovation, which swapped out colorful flower beds for a more muted look, are still pretty fresh—and, let’s just say, not everyone was thrilled.

But Trump’s supporters are saying, “Why not?!” After all, every president leaves their mark on the White House. Obama planted a vegetable garden, and Ford installed an outdoor swimming pool. They argue that adding a tropical twist could give the garden some fresh energy—and maybe a little more personality. Besides, isn’t the White House supposed to reflect the president’s style? Even if that style involves a little… gilding.

Let’s be honest—this isn’t just about flowers and pathways. The redesign is pure Trump: bold, flashy, and full of personality. And if you’ve been following his post-presidency life, you know Mar-a-Lago has become more than just his home—it’s his power center. Between GOP fundraisers, political powwows, and the occasional conga line, it’s where Trump keeps his orbit spinning. So, bringing a touch of his Florida fortress to the nation’s most famous lawn? Totally on brand.

Of course, some experts are waving their trowels and calling for a little compromise. Landscape historians are like, “Hey, maybe just a sprinkle of Mar-a-Lago flair. A hibiscus here, a palm frond there—but let’s keep it classy.” They argue that blending old and new could be a win-win—preserving history and adding a little personality.

From the New York Times:

“Mr. Trump has made clear to associates that he wants to recreate the patio experience at Mar-a-Lago, his members-only club and home in Palm Beach, Fla., creating a better space for entertaining guests. When he is at Mar-a-Lago, Mr. Trump spends hours of his evenings on the patio, with club members and other V.I.P.s dropping by his table to pay their respects. He often holds an iPad, controlling the playlist and blasting Luciano Pavarotti and James Brown at earsplitting volumes.”

So, what’s next? The timeline’s fuzzy, and details are still blooming, but one thing’s for sure: if this redesign goes forward, it’s going to make headlines—and maybe a few headaches.

Will Trump’s tropical vision become the Rose Garden’s next chapter, or will history win out? Stay tuned. And hey, maybe let’s just keep the pool floats and pink flamingos back in Florida. 🦩🌴