Donald Trump trashes former presidents over the White House.
Trump Sparks Health Speculation After Calling White House a ‘S---house’ in Rambling TV Appearance
May 19 2026, Published 3:10 p.m. ET
President Donald Trump sparked new online speculation about his health after he called the White House a “s---house” before renovations and claimed he personally paid for upgrades during a televised event in Washington.
Trump, 79, made the remark while addressing guests at an event for Police Week. The comment gained traction online after clips showed him criticizing the state of the executive mansion. He also mentioned advice from first lady Melania Trump to avoid using bad language.
President Trump's rant about the White House sparks concern.
“This place was not properly taken care of,” Trump stated. “I was told by my wife: ‘You have to act presidential, so don’t use foul language.’”
“I won’t,” he added. “Normally, I would have said it was a s---house, but I don’t want to say that.”
His comment drew laughter in the room but quickly fueled a new wave of online discussion about his behavior, age, and health. Critics pointed to the length and tone of his comments. Meanwhile, supporters defended his bluntness as part of his well-known public style.
Trump went on to say that parts of the White House had fallen into disrepair before he returned to office.
“The columns were falling down, the plaster was falling off,” he said. “This place is tippy top now, including all the brand new beautiful stone.”
“I paid for it myself,” he continued.
No independent verification has confirmed that Trump personally funded the improvements. His statement also came as he has repeatedly discussed changes to the White House grounds, including renovations to the Rose Garden and plans for a ballroom project.
President Donald Trump claims he paid for White House ballroom out of pocket.
During the same appearance, Trump mentioned the redesigned Rose Garden and said Melania Trump had commented on the change.
“I want to welcome you to the Rose Garden,” he said. “You know, this is a whole new thing. This used to be grass.”
Trump said that the first lady asked him, “Darling, what did you do with my grass?” He responded, “People got tired of standing in mud.”
This discussion arises just days before Trump is set to have his annual physical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on May 26, according to the White House. Reuters reported that Trump also plans to meet with service members and staff during his visit.
Trump's health has drawn public attention due to his age, busy schedule, and frequent public appearances. Reuters noted that Trump underwent a CT scan during an October visit to Walter Reed to check for cardiovascular issues, which later showed no abnormalities. He also expressed regret over disclosing the test, as it fueled speculation about his health.
Recent photographs showing bruising on Trump’s hands have also added to public concerns regarding his physical condition. The White House has not connected his recent remarks to any medical issues, and no diagnosis can be drawn from televised statements or online clips.
The White House website listed Trump’s May 18 public event as a healthcare affordability appearance, with recent official videos and briefings available on its live page.
Trump has often used unscripted language during public speeches, and the latest clip has again divided viewers. Some see it as a typical Trump moment, while others use it as another reason to question the president’s fitness for office.
The annual physical at Walter Reed is expected to attract more attention to Trump’s health as the White House faces scrutiny over the 79-year-old president's condition during his second term.