Trump wants a new Camp David retreat at his posh Florida golf club

Trump wants a new Camp David retreat at his posh Florida golf club By Bernd Debusmann and Sareen Habeshian US President Donald Trump is exploring the creation of a statesmanlike retreat modeled after Camp David at his Florida golf facility. The proposal would treat construction expenses as a “gift” to the American public and provide complimentary memberships for future presidents, along with lodging for visiting foreign dignitaries. “It's lone astur 2 minutes distant from the airdrome … and they could walk the play there, similar a retreat, similar a benignant of Camp David retreat,” Trump said connected Wednesday. If realized, the renovated golf property would stand in stark contrast to the rustic, woodland setting of Camp David, which originated as a Great Depression‑era camp for federal employees and was later nicknamed “Shangri‑La” by Franklin Roosevelt. Trump has previously sought to cement his legacy through alterations to the White House, such as gilded gold leaf accents in the Oval Office, the demolition of the East Wing, and the installation of a ballroom. He is also advancing plans for a monumental triumphal arch elsewhere in Washington. He has hosted national security meetings and other events at Camp David, the official presidential residence located in Catoctin Mountain Park, Frederick County, Maryland. The site, formally known as Naval Support Facility Thurmont, is staffed by uniformed members of the Navy and Marine Corps and is largely concealed from public view, with Marine patrols securing the perimeter and restricted airspace overhead. Access for the press is rarely permitted; during a recent BBC visit, White House reporters were given strict orders to avoid photographing unauthorized areas or divulging details about the camp’s layout. Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, by contrast, is readily accessible via major roadways that often feature lines of supporters or protesters when the president is present. The 27‑hole course markets itself as offering “a lively societal scene” and fine dining, regularly hosting Trump’s political allies during his frequent Florida weekends. The venue includes an upscale clubhouse, a pro shop, and serves as a hub for prominent social events among its members. The president’s characterization of the location as “secure” is noteworthy. In recent months Trump has repeatedly invoked national security arguments to justify various projects in Washington, D.C., including the White House ballroom initiative and the planned triumphal arch. When asked by reporters whether he would refer to the proposed retreat at his golf club as “Camp Donald,” Trump replied, “Well, it's already called Trump International. It's 1 of the champion play courses successful the world.” He cited the absence of tall buildings and nearby residences as an advantage, stating, “He said among advantages is the lack of precocious buildings and homes looming "so you don't person ... radical hiding down windows". “They tin get maximum safety,” the president said