The Rose Garden was created in 1913 by Ellen Wilson, the wife of President Woodrow Wilson. It was redesigned in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to serve as a space for outdoor ceremonies. It has since become a regular venue for various events, including receptions, press briefings, and other occasions.

A former senior executive at NBC Universal, Mike Sington, posted pictures of the redesign, stating that "everything Trump touches dies."

After bulldozing the historic lawn, the president is reportedly adding final touches that resemble his Florida resort.