President Donald Trump recently criticized the design of former President Barack Obama’s presidential library during a press briefing in the Oval Office. The library, which is being built on Chicago’s South Side at an estimated cost of around $850 million, has drawn attention for its distinctive, bulky design that some have likened to an obelisk.
When asked about the library’s appearance, Trump remarked, “It’s not too pretty,” and suggested that Obama had limited the construction team to "only women and DEI" (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. He further advised Obama to involve local construction workers, whom he praised for their skills. Trump recounted his own experience building a prominent skyscraper in Chicago, emphasizing that he completed it quickly and effectively by using local labor.
Trump also expressed concern over the library’s budget overruns, claiming that it is "hundreds of millions of dollars over budget" and that construction has stalled. He attributed these issues to the management style of Obama’s administration, suggesting that similar problems were prevalent during Obama’s presidency.
The library, often referred to as the "Obamalisk," is designed not only as a library but also as a community center. It will feature a community library and a basketball court, aimed at promoting local engagement. However, it will not house physical copies of Obama’s presidential records; instead, those records will be stored off-site, managed by the National Archives. This decision has raised concerns among historians about access to the records, as research at the library will be overseen by the Obama Foundation, rather than the National Archives.
As the construction of the library continues, it remains a topic of debate, with some praising its ambitious goals for community involvement while others criticize its design and management.
