A historic tree at the White House is scheduled to be cut
down and removed. The "Jackson" magnolia has been in place since
1828, when it was planted by then-President Andrew Jackson as a tribute to his
recently deceased wife.
According to a White House spokesperson, experts say the
tree is beyond repair and poses a safety hazard.
Between 1928 and 1988, the iconic tree featured on the $20
note.
A spokeswoman said that First Lady Melania Trump has
requested that its seedlings be maintained so that a new tree can be planted in
the same area.
She said Mrs Trump had taken the decision to remove the
current tree as it posed a threat to "the safety of visitors and members
of the press who are often standing right in front" of it when the
presidential helicopter takes off.
Although at first sight the tree appears normal, a report
from the United States National Arboretum, quoted by CNN, said "the tree
is greatly compromised" and "completely dependent on the artificial
support".
The magnolia tree's life has spanned 39 presidencies, as
well as the American Civil War and two World Wars.
It became a backdrop for many presidential addresses and
gatherings.
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