Historian Heather Cox Richardson is criticizing the Trump administration’s spending priorities, arguing that taxpayer dollars are being directed toward symbolic projects while programs that help vulnerable Americans face cuts.

Speaking on the PoliticsGirl podcast, Richardson questioned why the administration has found funding for projects such as restoring and embellishing monuments around Washington, D.C., while programs like SNAP food assistance and Medicaid have faced reductions.

“I’m all for maintaining our public spaces,” Richardson said, “but when families are losing food assistance and health care while taxpayer money is being spent on beautification projects, we have to ask what our priorities really are.”

Richardson argued that Americans have repeatedly been told the government cannot afford to expand social programs, yet funding continues to appear for projects she believes are intended to enhance President Trump’s legacy. She also referenced reports that hundreds of millions of dollars have been allocated toward a planned White House ballroom, despite earlier assurances that taxpayers would not bear the cost.

Her comments have sparked renewed debate over federal spending, with supporters of the administration defending investments in national landmarks and critics arguing that limited public funds should first address essential needs such as health care, nutrition, and public safety.

As discussions over the federal budget continue, Richardson’s remarks reflect a broader political argument over how taxpayer dollars should be spent—and whether government should prioritize public services or high-profile construction and restoration projects.