Trump Floats Relocation of White House Reporters, Dismisses Pool Restoration Rumors

President Donald Trump indicated on Friday that he may relocate the White House press corps to a new site, potentially removing them from the executive residence entirely. In a post on Truth Social, the president described the potential new location as "less obnoxious." The announcement came alongside a firm denial of reports suggesting he intends to demolish the current briefing room to uncover a historic swimming pool.

Trump rejected the idea of restoring the pool, labeling the reports "Fake News." He wrote, "I NEVER even thought to do such a stupid thing!" However, his comments left the door open for the dozens of reporters covering the administration to move to a different venue.

The speculation gained traction after The New York Times reported on Tuesday that Trump had discussed moving journalists out of the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room with former press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Leavitt, whose tenure ended on August 27, said in a Friday interview on HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher" that Trump was "flirting" with the concept. She noted he "maybe, wants to restore it to all of its glory" but added, "I don't know if he'll do it."

The pool was constructed in 1933 for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who used it to manage pain from polio. In the 1970s, President Richard Nixon ordered a floor built over the water to create space for the briefing room. The pool remains sealed beneath the room today.

The potential move occurs during a strained relationship between the White House and the media. Last month, the administration barred reporters from CNN, MS NOW, and POLITICO from the building. A federal judge ruled the ban likely unconstitutional, forcing the White House to reinstate their access, though the administration is contesting that decision.

Tensions flared again on Tuesday in the Oval Office, where Trump confronted The Independent's correspondent Andrew Feinberg. As Feinberg attempted to ask a question, Trump asked, "What's wrong with you? Are you a sick person? I actually think there's something wrong with you." The White House shared the exchange on social media.

Any changes to the briefing room would join a series of controversial alterations to the White House grounds since Trump returned to office last year. Recent projects include the demolition of the East Wing for a ballroom, the installation of concrete pavers in the Rose Garden, and the construction of a helipad on the South Lawn. The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.