Multiple outlets report that President Trump ordered the official portraits of Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and George H. W. Bush moved from the highly visible Grand Foyer to a restricted landing at the top of the White House’s Grand Staircase—placing them out of view for public tours.
Obama’s portrait—painted by Robert McCurdy and unveiled in September 2022—had been displayed near the entry before being relocated to the stairwell area, according to these reports.
Reports say the portraits of both Bushes were moved as well. Critics note this departs from the tradition of showcasing recent presidents prominently; it echoes a 2020 episode when the Clinton and George W. Bush portraits were shifted to a rarely used room during Trump’s first term.
A White House official confirmed the latest Obama move to at least one outlet, which also noted that Joe Biden’s official portrait is still pending. Reaction online has been swift, framing the switch as symbolic and partisan.
