Following the passing of Dolly Parton, Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags nationwide to be flown at half-staff in her honor.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Following the death of Dolly Parton on August 25 at the age of 80, a rumor began circulating online regarding a purported private phone call between the legendary country music star and President Donald Trump. Social media posts alleged that Parton contacted Trump shortly before her passing to urge him to complete the White House ballroom initiative. Let’s take a closer look at the facts behind this rumor.
Claim: Dolly Parton contacted Trump prior to her death
JUST IN: Trump says Dolly Parton called him before she died and told him to finish the ballroom.
— Spencer Hakimian (@SpencerHakimian) August 25, 2026
The story started with a post on X asserting that Donald Trump had a final conversation with Dolly Parton. The message read, “JUST IN: Trump says Dolly Parton called him before she died and told him to finish the ballroom.”
Parton, celebrated globally for timeless hits like “Jolene” and her extensive philanthropic efforts, passed away in Nashville following a brief battle with cancer.
The rumor gained traction largely because Trump has been advancing a heavily debated $400 million ballroom initiative at the White House. The proposed construction, which would replace the East Wing, has drawn ongoing criticism regarding its financing, overall cost, and potential impact on historic preservation.
Many users on X immediately questioned the validity of the post. One commenter remarked, “LOL I don’t believe a word of that……. Like just he just wake up everyday with a new idea.” Another added, “I can’t believe it,” while a third questioned, “This is a joke right?”
Fact Check: The rumor is completely false
There is no truth to the claim. The statement appears to be satirical, lacking any foundation in public remarks made by Trump. He never stated that Parton called him prior to her death, nor did she ever ask him to finish the White House ballroom. No verified news organizations, official White House documentation, or statements from Trump back up this narrative.
Following the public announcement of Parton’s passing on August 25, 2026, Trump published a tribute on Truth Social. He wrote, “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”
Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the… pic.twitter.com/WICghhk73d
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) August 25, 2026
To further honor the late icon, Trump ordered that American flags be flown at half-staff across the nation for a full week. His statement continued, “In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for one week beginning tonight at 6:00 PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
While the White House ballroom project is a genuine and contentious political topic, no connection exists between the construction plans and Parton, who was well-known throughout her career for steering clear of partisan politics.