The official portrait of former U.S. President Barack Obama, which once held a prominent position at the White House entrance, has been moved to the top of the grand staircase in a restricted area. This decision underscores the longstanding tensions between the 44th and 47th Presidents of the United States. According to CNN, Donald Trump also directed the relocation of portraits belonging to George W. Bush and George H. W. Bush, with whom he has a contentious relationship.
Currently, these three portraits are hung at the top of the grand staircase, a restricted area accessible only to the presidential family, Secret Service agents, and limited executive residence staff, keeping them out of sight from visitors. This is not the first time Obama's portrait has been relocated. In April, it was moved to the opposite side of the grand foyer, replaced by a painting depicting Trump surviving an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Traditionally, the White House showcases recent presidents' portraits in prominent, visible locations for guests and visitors. The move is seen as a continued slight towards Obama, with whom Trump has had a public feud that has escalated in recent months, as noted by CNN. Trump has accused his predecessor and his administration of "treason" during the 2016 elections, allegations that Obama’s office dismissed as "outrageous" and a "flimsy attempt at distraction."
Trump's strained relationship with the Bush family is also well-documented: George H. W. Bush once referred to him as a "blowhard" and voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016, while George W. Bush, whom Trump called a "failed president," attended his inauguration in 2025 but skipped the subsequent luncheon. During his first term, Trump altered the arrangement of portraits, replacing those of Bill Clinton and George W. Bush with William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt.
The tradition of modern presidential portraits dates back to the 1960s with Jacqueline Kennedy, and historically, unveiling ceremonies have been a diplomatic gesture between administrations. On this occasion, the White House has not commented, and a spokesperson for Obama declined to provide a statement, reported CNN.
In March, Trump stirred controversy by publicly demanding the removal of his presidential portrait from the Colorado State Capitol, describing the piece as "intentionally distorted" and "perhaps the worst painting" he has seen of himself. Through a Truth Social post, Trump harshly criticized both the painting and its artist, Sarah A. Boardman, who also created Obama's official portrait for the same venue. A day later, it was reported that the controversial portrait was to be taken down from the Colorado State Capitol following the former president's criticisms.
Understanding the White House Portrait Changes
Why were the portraits of Obama and the Bush family relocated?
The portraits were moved to a restricted area of the White House, emphasizing the strained relationships and ongoing tensions between Trump and these former presidents.
What is the traditional placement for presidential portraits in the White House?
Traditionally, recent presidents' portraits are placed in prominent, visible locations to be seen by guests and visitors, reflecting a gesture of respect and continuity.
How has Trump reacted to his own portrait being displayed?
Trump criticized his own portrait at the Colorado State Capitol, calling it intentionally distorted and demanded its removal, which subsequently happened following his remarks.