Donald Trump donates salary for White House renovations, claims to be 'the only President' to do so
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had donated his first paycheck to the renovations of the White House Historical Association.
Trump also mentioned that he is the only president, with the possible exception of George Washington, to have done so.
"I am proud to be the only President (with the possible exception of the Late, Great George Washington) to donate my Salary," Trump wrote. "My first 'Paycheck' went to the White House Historical Association, as we make much needed renovations to the beautiful 'People's House.'"
He stated that "improvements and beautification" are underway at the White House at "levels not seen since its original creation."
Even as Trump claimed to be the only president, except for George Washington do so, former presidents John F. Kennedy and Herbert Hoover have also donated their salaries.
The news comes after the White House Press Secretary announced that Trump is helping to pay for the cost of the White House State Ballroom, which is expected to cost approximately $200 million.
"For 150 years, presidents, administrations, and White House staff have longed for a large event space on the White House complex that can hold substantially more guests than currently allowed," Leavitt said at a news briefing.
"President Trump has expressed his commitment to solving this problem on behalf of future Administrations and the American people," she added.
According to the US federal law, the president earns a base salary of $400,000, with additional allowances such as $50,000 for expenses, $100,000 for travel, and $19,000 for entertainment.