Trump's Proposed Presidential Library Draws Criticism for Casino-Like Design

The planned library features a glass high-rise with Trump's name and a replica of the 'golden escalator' from his 2015 campaign announcement.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 9:57am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former President Donald Trump's plans for his presidential library in Miami have drawn criticism for resembling a casino more than a traditional presidential library. The proposed design includes a glass high-rise with Trump's name, a replica of the 'golden escalator' he rode down to announce his 2015 candidacy, and even a plane that appears to be Air Force One. Critics say the library threatens to undermine efforts to preserve presidential history and the transparency provided by the Presidential Records Act.

Why it matters

Presidential libraries are meant to serve as educational institutions that help the public understand the history and legacy of each presidency. However, Trump's proposed design for his library seems more focused on self-promotion and spectacle than on providing a serious, nonpartisan look at his time in office. This raises concerns that the library could become a partisan playground rather than a resource for scholars and the public.

The details

The plans for Trump's presidential library, shared in a recent video, show a glass high-rise in downtown Miami that features Trump's name and a giant U.S. flag. Inside, visitors will find a replica of the 'golden escalator' Trump rode down when he announced his presidential run in 2015, as well as what appears to be a Boeing 747 that was gifted to the president by Qatar. Critics say the design is more akin to a casino than a traditional presidential library.

  • Trump announced plans for his presidential library in 2026, shortly after leaving office.
  • The Justice Department issued a memo declaring the Presidential Records Act unconstitutional around the same time the library plans were unveiled.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who is planning to build a presidential library in Miami.

Bill Clinton

The former president whose presidential library in Little Rock, Arkansas has been criticized for its resemblance to a 'mobile home'.

Barack Obama

The former president whose presidential library in Chicago is attempting to adapt to the times with the first online-only presidential library archives.

Hillary Clinton

The former U.S. senator and presidential candidate whose archives will be included in an expansion of the Clinton presidential library in Little Rock.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The images seem more akin to a casino than a site intended to help the public understand the history of a presidency.”

— Andrew Demillo, Author

“Unilaterally declaring the Presidential Records Act unconstitutional undermines one of the most valuable aspects of Clinton's library, not to mention other libraries around the country.”

— Andrew Demillo, Author

What’s next

The Justice Department's memo declaring the Presidential Records Act unconstitutional is already creating confusion and threatens to block public access to millions of White House records, including those from the Clinton administration.

The takeaway

Presidential libraries should serve as nonpartisan educational institutions that help the public understand the history and legacy of each presidency. Trump's proposed design for his library, with its casino-like features and focus on self-promotion, threatens to undermine this purpose and turn the library into a partisan playground.