Their assumption seems to be that the a/c system is only designed to run 8 hrs. per day. A commercial system, is made to operate 24/7.
https://www.whitehousehistory.org/keeping-cool-in-the-white-house
Well aware of commercial a/c operations with zones and set back timing, just couldn’t resist taking jabs at the Clintons and Obamas. Or Jimmy Carter with his infamously ineffective and phony WH Solar project.
Interesting bit of history in the link you provided. Grew up very near the Old Soldiers Home, passing it nearly every day.
Thanks for the link.