On August 28, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order aimed at restoring classical architecture in federal public buildings. The Order mandates that structures such as courthouses and government offices should embody traditional architectural styles that enhance public spaces and reflect the dignity of the American government. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that these buildings are visually identifiable as civic structures and respect regional architectural heritage. Any deviations from this style require notification to the President.
This initiative arises from the belief that taxpayer-funded buildings should align with the aesthetic values of the American public. Historically, figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were involved in designing iconic buildings, establishing a legacy of classical architecture that many Americans feel has been overshadowed by modernist styles since the 1960s. In response to a popular demand for more traditional designs, President Trump seeks to restore a sense of pride in American architecture, drawing on themes of civic virtue and beauty.
In addition to the architectural focus, President Trump has initiated various efforts aimed at fostering a renewed sense of patriotism and civic pride. These initiatives include protecting national monuments and enhancing the beauty and safety of Washington, D.C. The overarching goal of these actions is to restore what the administration describes as the architectural grandeur that reflects the nation’s heritage and serves the interests of the American people.
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