President Donald Trump recently introduced two gold-embellished Cisco landline phones to the Oval Office. The phones, which feature gold-colored presidential emblems, a sketch of the White House, and custom lettering, were observed on the Resolute Desk.
During an event with travel industry executives, Trump was asked by Fox News’ Peter Doocy about the new phones. Trump responded that he received them from "a phone company." It remains unclear whether the White House, Cisco, or a third party was involved in customizing the phones with their gold trim and lettering, which includes "The President," "45," "47," and "Donald J. Trump."
Analysis of images suggests the phones were added to the desk between July 13 and July 24, replacing older models visible in White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino's July 21 video showcasing an earlier golden makeover of the Oval Office.
The addition of the custom phones drew criticism on social media. Some commentators questioned the expenditure of taxpayer money on what they described as "the dumbest stuff." Others made lighthearted remarks, with one user posting, "Liberace called. He wants his landline back."