Trump Discusses Sharpie Pens, Cabinet Looks During War-Time Meeting

During a cabinet meeting amid ongoing conflict with Iran, President Trump spent time discussing his preference for inexpensive Sharpie markers over costly pens and complimenting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's glasses. The president also made jokes about potentially running for president of Venezuela and referenced various construction projects around Washington.

WASHINGTON, March 26 – As the United States continues military operations with Israel against Iran one month into a conflict that has created unprecedented energy market disruptions, President Donald Trump held a cabinet meeting Thursday that featured his characteristic conversational diversions, touching on everything from writing utensils to eyewear fashion.

The following highlights showcase the Republican leader’s speaking approach, which he calls “the weave”:

MARKER PREFERENCES

The president’s distinctive, bold signature style is widely recognized, and during Thursday’s meeting he dedicated considerable time discussing his preferred writing tools – Sharpie markers – which he favors over expensive ballpoint pens costing up to $1,000.

“See this pen right here? This pen is an interesting example. So this pen is very inexpensive. But it writes well; I like it … I don’t want to give them too much publicity but they do treat me well – Sharpie,” he said, displaying a large black marker. “I love the government like I love myself economically. I want to save money. So I’m saying this is crazy. And I had another problem – they didn’t write well. … There’s no ink in the pen and it costs a thousand dollars.”

KENNEDY CENTER RENAMING

Following his typical pattern during public events, the former property developer spent considerable time discussing Washington construction initiatives he has launched, including demolishing the White House East Wing for ballroom construction, proposing a victory arch near Arlington National Cemetery, and plans to reconstruct the Kennedy Center performing arts venue. A board dominated by Trump appointees has rechristened the facility honoring the assassinated President John F. Kennedy as the “Trump-Kennedy Center.”

“I was honored when the board changed the name a little bit. Actually it shows that the Republicans and the Democrats they work together – it’s really something. We work together,” Trump stated, despite his repeated calls for Republicans in Congress to use their slim majority to overrule Democrats, including altering rules that protect minority party influence.

Ohio Representative Joyce Beatty, among the few Democrats remaining on the Kennedy Center board, has filed legal action to prevent the name change, pointing out that Congress established the Kennedy designation in the original legislation creating the center.

TREASURY SECRETARY’S EYEWEAR

Trump frequently comments on his cabinet members’ physical appearance, both men and women, and Thursday focused his attention on Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

“I’m looking at this guy; he’s central casting. Even the glasses are perfect. Where’d you get those glasses? I think I’m going to get glasses like that. Great job,” Trump remarked about Bessent’s rimless silver-framed spectacles, despite Trump not typically wearing glasses himself.

VENEZUELA PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS

The president made lighthearted comments about potentially seeking office in Venezuela against Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed leadership after President Nicolas Maduro was captured by U.S. forces during a rapid early-January military operation.

“I’m the highest-polling person – in other words, after the presidency I think I may go to Venezuela and run for president – against Delcy. I may run against Delcy. They love me in Venezuela. It’s an option for me. It’s a wonderful option.”

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT REFERENCE

When journalists inquired about his strategy for the Iranian conflict, he mentioned the 25th Amendment to the Constitution, which outlines procedures for removing a president deemed unable to perform their duties.

“I can’t say what we’re going to do because if I did, I wouldn’t be sitting here for long. They probably, what is it called, the 25th Amendment,” Trump said. Speaking about his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden, he added, “They institute the 25th Amendment, which they didn’t do with Biden, which is shocking.”