The White House recently took down the official portrait of former President Barack Obama and put up a new painting in its place. While the move was intended to refresh the display, many online were quick to criticize the change.
A new painting portraying former President Donald Trump during the attempted assassination he survived in Pennsylvania last summer has taken a prominent place in the White House’s Grand Foyer. This change follows the removal of President Barack Obama’s official portrait, which previously occupied the space.
The new artwork drew immediate notice after it was featured on the White House’s official social media. Rather than being removed entirely, Obama’s portrait was relocated to the opposite side of the Grand Foyer, taking the position once held by President George W. Bush. Bush’s portrait was then moved closer to his father’s near a staircase.
Now displayed in a prime spot within the East Wing, the painting shows Trump with a bloodied face and his right fist raised — a moment that became a powerful symbol during his campaign. By Friday morning, it had already taken its place among the most visible pieces in the presidential residence.
Public reaction soon followed. Many took to the White House’s Instagram account to voice their frustration. One user wrote, “Doesn’t look like it fits there.” Another questioned, “Is it serious?” A third added, “Is this a joke? No, it is not.”
The tone grew sharper with one remarking, “This gives super north korea vibes that isn’t funny [sic].” Someone else summed it up, “It’s so unbelievable!!”
This was taken at Christmas.
This space in the entrance hall is traditionally reserved for the last president to have their official portrait unveiled — and that’s still Barack Obama. pic.twitter.com/GoSbromrwz
— Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) April 11, 2025
The online backlash centered on the violent event depicted in the painting. In July 2024, Trump was injured during a campaign rally when gunfire erupted. He was quickly removed from the stage with blood visible on his face.
Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger stated that the head of state had been “grazed” by a bullet. According to the Secret Service, the shooter and one attendee were killed, while two others were injured.
Following the incident, Trump addressed the public on Truth Social, expressing gratitude to the United States Secret Service and law enforcement for their quick action. He shared details of the shooting:
“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.”
Video captured during the rally offered more details about the sequence of events. The 78-year-old was in the middle of his speech when a series of sharp, gunshot-like sounds echoed through the area.
Clips shared across social media showed him turning in the direction of the noise and briefly reaching for his ear. Within seconds, Secret Service agents rushed the platform and surrounded him.
As he was guided offstage, what looked like blood was visible on the side of his face. Before leaving, Trump paused, told the agents, “wait, wait,” then raised his fist and shouted, “Fight! Fight!” In the same footage, an agent could be heard saying, “the shooter is down.”
