White House rejects ‘replica’ Oval Office story

US: The White House on Wednesday rejected reports that a replica Oval Office was being built for President Barack Obama to use during repairs of the iconic West Wing complex.

Reports had said that Obama could be asked to move to the Eisenhower Old Executive Office Building adjacent to the White House by August, in the latest stage of a multi-year renovation effort. “I can say that specifically, reports about a replica Oval Office are false. And, you know, no one’s moving from the West Wing ... no decisions about that have been made,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said. The West Wing houses the Oval Office, where Obama spends most of his days working and meets foreign leaders for ceremonial talks and other top visitors to the White House, the Cabinet Room and offices of top Obama advisors.

Its cramped offices and winding corridors represent the most jealously fought-over real estate in Washington, where power is judged by proximity to the president.

The RealClearPolitics website reported that the West Wing repairs were part of a $376 million renovation project of the most famous office in the world.

Other presidents have been forced to relocate for renovation work at various times in the history of the White House.

AFP