Historic Shift: Trump Relocates Obama and Bush Portraits to a Hidden Stairwell – What This Means for Presidential Traditions

Once a significant part of the White House’s entryway, former President Barack Obama’s portrait has been moved to a less visible spot. This change highlights the ongoing tensions between Obama and Trump. The portraits of former Presidents George W. Bush and his father, George H. W. Bush, have also been relocated under Trump’s direction.

Two sources shared that the Obama portrait has now been placed at the top of the Grand Staircase, where it’s out of sight from the thousands of visitors who tour the White House daily. This shift follows a pattern. In April, the portrait was moved across the Grand Foyer to be replaced temporarily with a painting depicting a moment from Trump’s history.

It’s customary for recent presidents’ portraits to be prominently displayed within the White House. However, Trump seems to prefer a different approach. Reports indicate he is heavily involved in decisions about the White House’s aesthetics. Photos show the Obama portrait now tucked away at a landing near the private residence, mostly unseen by guests.

The dynamics between Obama and Trump are anything but smooth. Tensions have recently escalated, especially after Trump accused Obama’s administration of serious misconduct during the 2016 elections. Obama’s office termed Trump’s claims “outrageous” and “bizarre.”

Tensions with the Bush family are also evident. George H. W. Bush criticized Trump in his biography and even voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016. George W. Bush, despite attending Trump’s inauguration, has faced attacks from Trump over his presidency.

Expert opinions highlight that these moves are often seen as political statements. Historian and curator Betty Monkman noted that such actions reflect a broader trend of altering White House portrait placements based on personal relationships.

Interestingly, a recent report from the White House Historical Association indicates that the tradition of presidential portraits began in the early 1960s. Before that, the practice was less organized, funded either by Congress or personal donations.

As for the current president, Joe Biden’s portrait is yet to be completed. The atmosphere around these portrait changes reflects the complicated nature of political relationships in modern America.



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