Trump Donates Salary to Historical Association

On August 6, President Trump shared on Truth Social his decision to donate his first paycheck of his second term to the White House Historical Association. This contribution aims to aid ongoing renovations of what he referred to as “The People’s House.”

During his initial term, Trump donated his entire annual salary of $400,000, disbursed in quarterly payments of $100,000, to various government agencies. From the Small Business Administration to the Department of Health and Human Services, he has often stated that he has “faithfully donated his entire salary since taking office,” aligning with the commitments he made during his campaign, as noted by TIME.

In his announcement, he expressed pride in being “the only president” to have made such donations, perhaps only rivaled by George Washington, whom he mentioned in a somewhat tongue-in-cheek manner.

“My first ‘Paycheck’ went to the White House Historical Association, as we make much-needed renovations to the beautiful ‘People’s House.’ Great improvements and beautification are taking place at the White House, at levels not seen since its original creation,” he wrote.

Trump’s generous act mirrors former President Herbert Hoover, who was the first to decline the presidential salary due to his financial independence before assuming office. Additionally, John F. Kennedy also reportedly donated his entire salary, benefiting from a family trust fund before his presidency.

This announcement follows a week after White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed plans for a new ballroom at the White House, slated to begin construction in September. This news, however, was met with some criticism, as many accused the president of misusing taxpayer money on the projected $200 million project. Nevertheless, the White House clarified that funding for this new structure would come from Trump and private donors, not taxpayers.