A portrait of President Donald Trump hanging at the Colorado state Capitol will be removed following claims of distortion, state officials announced. House Democrats revealed that the oil painting would be taken down at the request of Republican leaders in the Legislature.
Background of the Portrait
The portrait, painted by artist Sarah Boardman during Trump’s first term and unveiled in 2019, has sparked controversy. Colorado Republicans raised over $10,000 through a GoFundMe account to commission the oil painting.
Trump’s Response
In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the portrait, stating that it was purposefully distorted. He praised a nearby portrait of former President Barack Obama by the same artist, emphasizing its favorable depiction.
Public Reaction
Following Trump’s comments, visitors flocked to the Capitol to take photos with the portrait. Opinions varied, with some criticizing the portrayal while others found it accurate or even flattering.
Decision and Future Plans
The Colorado Building Advisory Committee, not the governor’s office, oversees the portraits in the Capitol. Despite the artist’s intent for apolitical depictions, the controversy surrounding Trump’s portrait led to its removal.
While the portrait’s removal resolves the immediate issue, it raises questions about the intersection of art, politics, and public perception.
