The removal of the Oval Office desk amid reports of listening devices remains a developing story, with limited official confirmation but significant buzz from various sources. Here’s what’s known based on the latest available information:
Recent reports indicate that President Donald Trump ordered the iconic Resolute Desk, a fixture in the Oval Office for over a century, to be temporarily removed and replaced with the C&O Desk. Trump announced this change on Truth Social, stating that the Resolute Desk was being "lightly refinished" and that the C&O Desk, previously used by George H.W. Bush, would serve as a "beautiful, but temporary" replacement. This move was initially framed as a routine refurbishment, with Trump noting that presidents can choose from seven desks upon taking office.
Speculation has intensified following some web reports suggesting a more serious reason: the discovery of listening devices in the Oval Office, including potentially within the Resolute Desk itself. Several X users, as recently as today, have claimed that the desk was removed for a security scan after audio surveillance equipment was uncovered during an intensive White House security sweep. These posts describe a scenario where the desk is undergoing forensic analysis to investigate a suspected miniature transmitter, though no official White House statement has confirmed these specifics as of this moment.
The timing of the desk’s removal adds fuel to the speculation. It comes shortly after a widely publicized incident involving Elon Musk’s four-year-old son, X Æ A-12, who was seen on live TV appearing to wipe his nose on the Resolute Desk during a visit to the Oval Office with his father and Trump. While some outlets, like the New York Post, have jokingly linked the refurbishment to this event—citing Trump’s known germaphobia—others suggest the listening device angle could point to a deeper security concern, possibly unrelated to the child’s actions.
Historically, the Resolute Desk, gifted by Queen Victoria to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1880, has been a symbol of presidential authority, used by nearly every president since Jimmy Carter returned it to the Oval Office in 1977. Its temporary replacement with the C&O Desk, which has a less prominent history, marks a notable shift, especially if tied to a security breach rather than mere maintenance.
No definitive evidence from official channels has yet substantiated the listening device claims. The White House has not publicly addressed the security sweep allegations beyond Trump’s refurbishment explanation. The story’s traction on social media, particularly X, reflects public intrigue and suspicion, with some users suggesting political motives—like lingering "Deep State" interference—while others treat it as unconfirmed rumor. 17GEN4.com