What's happened
On June 5, 2025, President Trump unveiled a new official portrait, marking the first presidential image in over 60 years without an American flag in the background. The photo, taken by Daniel Torok, features a close-up of Trump with a serious expression against a dark backdrop, reflecting a shift in presidential portrait aesthetics.
What's behind the headline?
A Shift in Aesthetic
- The new portrait represents a significant departure from traditional presidential imagery, which typically includes an American flag and a lighter background.
- Trump's choice of a dark backdrop and serious expression echoes past portraits of presidents like Franklin D. Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover, suggesting a return to a more somber tone.
- The absence of the flag in the background is notable; it is the first such portrait since Richard Nixon's in 1969, indicating a potential shift in how presidential identity is visually represented.
- The close-up framing and dramatic lighting create an intimate yet imposing image, reflecting Trump's unique brand of leadership and public persona.
- This portrait may resonate with Trump's supporters, who have previously embraced his more controversial imagery, such as his mug shot from 2023, reinforcing his narrative of resilience against perceived political adversities.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, Jason Farago notes that the new portrait's lighting is 'immoderate' and 'forbidding,' yet it captures a 'softened' Trump compared to the previous portrait, which he likened to a horror movie villain. In contrast, The Independent highlights the portrait's high contrast and dark shadows, emphasizing its departure from Trump's earlier, more traditional images. Business Insider UK points out that this portrait is part of a broader aesthetic shift in the White House, with Trump making various changes to the decor and presentation of his presidency. These differing perspectives illustrate the ongoing debate about Trump's image and its implications for his political identity.
How we got here
This new portrait replaces an earlier image released during Trump's inauguration in January 2025. The previous portrait featured a more traditional setting with an American flag, while the new one emphasizes a darker, more dramatic style, aligning with Trump's evolving aesthetic preferences.
Go deeper
- What does the new portrait signify?
- How does this compare to previous presidential portraits?
- What changes has Trump made to the White House decor?
Common question
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Why Did Trump Fire the National Portrait Gallery Director?
On May 30, 2025, President Donald Trump made headlines by firing Kim Sajet, the director of the National Portrait Gallery. This controversial decision has raised numerous questions about the implications for cultural institutions and the ongoing political climate. Below, we explore the reasons behind this decision and its broader significance.
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