Trump’s Literal Gilded Age

President Trump has overseen the gilding of two 19-foot statues near the Lincoln Memorial with 23.75-karat gold leaf costing $5.1 million, reflecting his broader preference for gold-themed decor in the White House and public projects. Trump's use of gold includes the Oval Office, Mar-a-Lago, and diplomatic gifts like a golden pager from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.