The unveiling of the 2024 White House Christmas decorations by First Lady Jill Biden, themed “A Season of Peace and Light,” has sparked wide-ranging political commentary. The intricate display has become a point of mockery for some Republicans, perpetuating a recurring trend of political discord over the holiday adornments at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
The 2024 decorations include 83 Christmas trees garnished with over 28,000 ornaments, close to 10,000 feet of ribbon, and upwards of 165,000 lights. The official White House Christmas tree, an imposing Fraser fir, stands at the heart of the Blue Room. This tree is flanked by a vibrant carousel-themed decoration, featuring reindeer, swans, and other animals on poles.
The official tree is lit with twinkling lights and decorated with three-dimensional confections such as peppermints and ribbon candies. It also displays the names of every U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia.
Visitors to the White House are greeted by a rotating starlight and the Gold Star tree, which pays tribute to the families of fallen service members. The East Colonnade is lined with bells, a symbol of holiday sounds, while the East Room is adorned with reflective decorations intended to mimic falling snow. Other distinctive features are on display in the Green and Red Rooms, with colored glass ornaments and paper doves bearing peace messages. The State Dining Room boasts a large gingerbread White House replica, complete with ice skaters and snow-dusted miniature trees.
Despite the intricate craftsmanship and emotional resonance of the decorations, they have drawn criticism from the political right. One critic likened the decor to the result of a “group of circus clowns projectile vomited all over the White House.” Abigail Jackson, Communications Director for Senator Josh Hawley, commented on social media, “White House Christmas decorations are circus-themed. How fitting.”
This pattern of partisan critique over White House holiday decorations is not new. Former First Lady Melania Trump was similarly criticized in 2017 over her minimalist white branches, which some likened to horror movie settings. A later-released recording highlighted Melania’s frustration with the scrutiny. “I’m working my (expletive) off on the Christmas stuff… but I need to do it, right?” she said.
Republican criticism of the current year’s decorations seems as much about political messaging as about aesthetics. The carousel and brightly lit ornaments were designed to inspire joy and childhood wonder. However, critics have used the decor as a platform for a wider cultural and political critique of the Biden administration. This politicization of holiday decor has become more pronounced in recent years, with even Christmas becoming a source of division.
Despite the criticisms, Jill Biden highlighted the unity and joy intended by the decorations. In a speech to National Guard families and volunteers who helped with the display, she expressed gratitude for their work. “This would not be possible without your work,” she said. “It’s been incredible to watch all of you transform this space year after year.”
In the final holiday season of President Biden’s term, the White House decorations mirror the complexities of present-day politics. While intended to spread peace and light, the display finds itself at the center of partisan debate. Critics and supporters alike project their perspectives onto the holiday spectacle.
