Here’s what President Trump is doing now.
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, President Trump’s administration is moving ahead with another major project in Washington, D.C. But the latest announcement has some Americans asking a simple question:
Why is the federal government spending more than $5 million on statues?
The Department of the Interior revealed Thursday that four historic gold-plated statues near the Lincoln Memorial will undergo an extensive restoration project expected to cost approximately $5.1 million.
The effort is part of a broader push to restore and beautify some of America’s most recognizable landmarks ahead of the nation’s historic 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.
Historic Statues Set For Major Restoration
The statues, known as the Arts of War and Arts of Peace, have stood near the Lincoln Memorial for generations.
The massive equestrian sculptures were gifted to the United States by Italy roughly 75 years ago and have become a familiar sight for millions of visitors who travel to Washington each year.
According to Interior Department officials, the monuments have not received a full regilding since 1971.
After decades of exposure to rain, wind, pollution, and harsh weather conditions, federal officials say restoration work is needed to preserve the statues for future generations.
$5.1 Million Price Tag Draws Attention
The restoration project comes with a price tag of approximately $5.1 million, making it one of the more expensive historic preservation efforts currently underway in the nation’s capital.
The announcement quickly sparked discussion online, with many Americans weighing the importance of preserving historic monuments against concerns about government spending.
Supporters argue that maintaining national landmarks is a worthwhile investment, particularly as the country approaches a once-in-a-generation milestone celebration.
Critics, however, may question whether millions of taxpayer dollars should be directed toward cosmetic improvements during a time when many Americans continue to face economic challenges.
Trump Administration Focused On America’s 250th Birthday
The Trump administration has placed significant emphasis on preparing for America’s semiquincentennial celebration.
In a social media post, the Interior Department said it is working to improve Washington’s appearance ahead of the historic anniversary.
The agency even embraced modern internet slang, joking that it was “auramaxxing” the nation’s capital—a reference to maximizing style, appearance, and overall appeal.
Officials say restoration projects are expected to continue as preparations accelerate for the 2026 celebration.
Who Is Performing The Work?
The National Park Service awarded the contract to The Gilders’ Studio, a Maryland-based company that specializes in restoring historic monuments, sculptures, and architectural features.
The company has previously completed restoration work for several well-known federal landmarks.
During the Biden administration, it received a contract worth more than $225,000 to restore the First Infantry Division Monument near the White House.
It also performed restoration work at the National World War I Memorial and previously completed a smaller project for the Kennedy Center.
More Improvements Planned For Washington
The statue project follows other restoration efforts supported by President Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.
Among the most visible projects are ongoing improvements surrounding the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, one of the most visited destinations in the nation’s capital.
Administration officials have repeatedly stated that preserving America’s monuments and historical sites is a key part of honoring the nation’s heritage ahead of the 250th anniversary celebration.
Whether Americans view the $5.1 million restoration as a necessary investment or an unnecessary expense, one thing is clear: preparations for America’s biggest birthday celebration are already well underway.
And with less than two years until the historic milestone arrives, additional restoration and beautification projects are likely still to come.
