Trump to Bring Back Iconic Desk Feature Upon Return to WH
In preparation for Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office for a second term, the White House is set to undergo a swift and thorough transition, and longstanding staff members, who know the Trumps well from their previous tenure, have a mere five hours to make the residence feel like home again.
The White House staff is expected to execute a seamless transition for the return of the Trump family on Jan. 20, ensuring that all personal preferences are met, including reinstalling the famous Oval Office Diet Coke button, as the Post Millennial reports.
To accomplish this task, approximately 100 non-political employees are mobilized to transition the space from the current Biden administration to suit Trump's familiar style.
One of the most talked-about changes will be the reinstatement of the Diet Coke button on the Oval Office desk. This small but iconic feature will once again be available for Trump's return, underscoring his known affinity for the beverage.
Preparing for a Swift Transition
These staff members play a crucial role in ensuring the transition goes smoothly, from unpacking Trump's wardrobe and setting up toiletries to filling the kitchen with his preferred food and drink. Given their previous experience with the Trump family, these staffers already have insight into the family’s preferences, which includes having Diet Coke readily available.
Author Kate Anderson Brower, who has written about the lives of those who reside at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, noted the advantage: they have lived there before. White House staffers already know the Trumps' daily routines, favorite toiletries, and dietary preferences.
The White House staff remains constant between administrations, providing stability and expertise in handling such transitions sensitively and efficiently. Their apolitical stance allows them to serve each president, regardless of party, with professionalism.
Diet Coke Button and Preferred Foods
One peculiar yet famous detail is Trump’s consumption of Diet Coke. Reports suggest he consumes up to 12 cans daily. To accommodate this preference, the Diet Coke button, which became a notable feature during his first term, will be making its return to the Oval Office.
Trump's return comes after a vigorous 2024 campaign, which was notable for its unconventional approach to connecting with voters. He even participated in various activities, including working at a McDonald's fryer and drive-thru, aligning his public persona with everyday American life.
In an interview during the campaign, Trump mentioned his unexpected weight loss, crediting it to the energy of the events. He explained the high energy and excitement in these settings as unexpectedly serving as a form of exercise, affecting his appetite.
Staff Experience with Trump Family
Given the team's familiarity from Trump's previous four-year term, the transition process is anticipated to be more efficient and comfortable. From setting personal items to organizing spaces according to their preferences, the staff’s experience will prove invaluable.
The longstanding apolitical nature of these employees ensures that they maintain good working relationships across different administrations. This continuity is critical, especially during such short turnover periods between outgoing and incoming administrations.
While some features like the Diet Coke button grab attention due to its quirkiness, the broader work involves meticulous housekeeping and ensuring operational structures are in place before Jan. 20.
The entire transition is handled with precision, focusing on both practicality and the personal comforts of the incoming administration.
Atmosphere of Transition in the White House
Such transitions underline the unique, often unappreciated roles that White House staff members play in the continuity and tradition of the American presidency.
Regardless of political affiliation, their work ensures every incoming president can start their duties smoothly and efficiently.
As Trump and his family prepare to move back into the White House, these staff members will focus on every detail, from daily routines to specific preferences, to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible. Their work allows for an immediate start to governance without the distractions of settling into a new environment.
This method of transition emphasizes the importance of tradition and the consistent workings behind the scenes in the nation's oldest executive office.
With their renewed service to the Trump family, these staff members continue to uphold a legacy of nonpartisan support within a historic institution.