Trump Calls Obama Lousy President After Cheesecake Factory White House Jibe

US President Donald Trump called former president Barack Obama not smart and a lousy president after Obama mocked recent gold-heavy renovations at the White House. Obama made the remark at a campaign rally in Ohio on Saturday while supporting Democratic candidates Amy Acton and Sherrod Brown, suggesting Trump belonged on HGTV and comparing the decorated presidential residence to a restaurant opened by former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. Trump hit back during travel and onstage remarks in Mississippi, defending the projects as necessary maintenance for a national symbol and stating he was fixing broken ornaments, windows, tiles, and marble columns.

Reactions And Polls

The exchange highlighted political tensions ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, with Trump facing pressure over high living costs and low approval ratings. Trump allies defended the redesign and accused Obama of elitism, pointing to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent eating at a Cheesecake Factory to counter the criticism. Meanwhile, a recent poll showed 59 per cent of respondents felt Trump spent too much time on home improvements compared to 27 per cent who approved.

Context

US political campaigns frequently feature sharp personal attacks between current and former leaders over lifestyle choices and economic priorities. Such verbal clashes often intensify in the weeks leading up to midterm elections as parties fight for voter attention on domestic issues.