In a move that has captivated and divided public opinion, President Donald Trump announced that the historic Resolute Desk has been removed from the Oval Office and temporarily replaced with the well-known C&O Desk while the original undergoes a “vital” refurbishment. The decision, revealed on his platform Truth Social, comes amid a series of bold executive actions and policy shifts since Trump’s recent return to office.
A Symbol of American Heritage
The Resolute Desk is much more than just a piece of furniture—it is an enduring symbol of American tradition and continuity. Crafted from timbers salvaged from the British exploration ship HMS Resolute and gifted to President Rutherford B. Hayes by Queen Victoria in 1880, the desk has graced the offices of nearly every U.S. President, including Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Its rich history and storied past have made it a revered artifact, representing decades of presidential decision-making and national heritage.
The Temporary Replacement: The C&O Desk
In a statement on Truth Social, President Trump explained that while the Resolute Desk is being lightly refurbished, a “beautiful but temporary” replacement—the C&O Desk—has been installed in its place. Known for its own distinguished history and previously used by President George H.W. Bush and other predecessors, the C&O Desk will serve as an interim centerpiece of the Oval Office.
Trump humorously noted, “A President, after election, gets a choice of 1 in 7 desks,” before clarifying that, in reality, there’s a choice of one in six. His remarks underline his characteristic blend of humor and bold decision-making, even when it comes to the décor of the highest office in the land.