Trump to Donate Salary for Second Term

On August 6, 2025, former President Donald Trump announced that he plans to donate his first salary from his upcoming second term to the White House Historical Society. This contribution will go toward renovations of the iconic residence, often referred to as the “People’s House.”

During his first term, Trump donated his entire annual salary of $400,000, which the Small Business Administration disbursed in quarterly payments to the Department of Health and Human Services. He has expressed a sense of pride in being the only president to have donated his salary.

“My first ‘salary’ went to the White House Historic Association to do many necessary renovations to the beautiful ‘people’s houses.’ The White House is undergoing major improvements and glorification at levels not seen since its original creation,” he shared on social media.

Trump’s decision to donate his income echoes the actions of former President Herbert Hoover, who also refused his presidential salary due to his financial independence. Similarly, John F. Kennedy reportedly donated his entire salary, relying on a trust fund established by his father.

This announcement follows a recent statement from White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, who revealed that a new ballroom will be constructed in the White House starting this September. However, this project has sparked some criticism online, with many claiming that the estimated $200 million, 90,000 square-foot renovation feels like “washing taxes.” Despite this backlash, the White House clarified that funding for the project will come from the president and other donors, not taxpayers.