President Donald Trump has hinted that the UFC lighting grid, known as ‘The Claw,’ could remain on the White House South Lawn well beyond the upcoming fight scheduled for June 14. In a video posted on TikTok, Trump likened the structure to the Eiffel Tower, which was initially intended to be dismantled after the World’s Fair in 1889 but was ultimately preserved.
Trump remarked, ‘Many don’t know that in Paris, France, the Eiffel Tower was supposed to be taken down immediately after the World’s Fair, and then they said, ‘You know, we sorta like it, let’s leave it up a little bit longer.’ Well, they never took it down.’ He continued, ‘And, you know, we’re building something in front of the White House that’s quite attractive to a lot of people. It’s going to have the big UFC fight on June 14, and I’m looking at it — and maybe we’ll never, ever take it down.’
The Claw, decorated like the American flag and taller than the White House, has already caused logistical challenges, as Trump’s arrivals and departures on the South Lawn have been temporarily halted. Marine One typically lands and departs from this area, but due to the construction, Trump has been using motorcades to travel to and from Joint Base Andrews for Air Force One flights. The South Lawn is also a frequent venue for large events, adding to the complexity of keeping the structure permanently.
Controversial Changes and Celebrations
This isn’t the first time Trump has made unconventional changes to the White House grounds. His presidency has seen the demolition of the East Wing, paving of the Rose Garden, gilding of the Oval Office, and the creation of ‘The Presidential Walk of Fame.’ These changes have often sparked debate and criticism.
In addition to changes at the White House, Trump has initiated alterations in Washington, D.C., as part of the America 250 celebration, including painting the bottom of the Reflecting Pool in ‘American flag blue’ and restoring fountains throughout the city.
UFC CEO Dana White was seen entering the West Wing shortly before Trump’s TikTok video was posted. The UFC is funding the event, with expenses estimated at $60 million, including $700,000 to re-sod the South Lawn after the event. White candidly remarked on the cost, saying, ‘Because we’re going to f**k up the South Lawn, $700,000 just to replace the grass.’
The White House is heavily promoting the UFC event, which coincides with Flag Day and Trump’s 80th birthday. An image of a muscular Uncle Sam was posted on the White House X page to advertise the event.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
