Trump has used the renovation project as both a literal and symbolic example of what he has often described as government waste. Speaking to reporters last week, Trump called the construction effort “a disgrace,” and accused Fed officials of overspending at a time when inflation remains high and interest rates are biting into household budgets.

Mr. President, as a real estate developer, how would you deal with a project manager who is over budget?” The Post asked Trump after he and a grim-faced Powell approached the press

President Trump floated the idea of firing Jerome Powell — whom he first appointed Federal Reserve chair — earlier this week, after years of on-and-off criticism over interest rates.