I pine for the grace and style of past presidents and first ladies | Letter

When visiting Washington, D.C., I would feel reverence and awe while driving by and visiting the White House and grounds. They embody years of challenges and stand as a testament to our history and to our future.   Things have changed with Trump in residence. Jackie Kennedy’s Rose Garden has been transformed into a restaurant patio. The grounds and East Wing have been ripped apart like a war zone while Trump fixates on his gaudy, ridiculous, expensive, out-of-scale ballroom. The interior of our White House has become Trump’s wannabe golden palace. Trump is further intruding on D.C. with plans for a huge arch near Arlington Cemetery and with his face on flags flying on D.C. buildings. As a combined 80th birthday and America’s 250th anniversary celebration, Trump has authorized the construction by Ultimate Fighting Championship to erect a 750-foot overarching “claw” and fighting ring on the White House grounds. He has also planned an Indianapolis 500 style car race that will speed through D.C. streets in August.  I long for the grace, style and humility of past presidents and first ladies. Hopefully, in future elections, we will vote a reversal from Trump’s horrific footprint on the White House and grounds. **Nina McKee** _Scarborough_ Copy the Story Link Tagged: [letter to the editor](https://www.pressherald.com/tag/letter-to-the-editor/)