Walk into the Oval Office today, in early 2026, and you’ll notice it’s basically a different world compared to a few years ago. There’s gold. A lot of it. But beyond the glitz of the "Golden Age" decor, the walls tell a story that’s way more complicated than just picking out some nice art. Most people think a president just picks a favorite painting and hangs it up. Honestly, with Donald Trump, it’s a whole lot more intentional than that. Every frame, every bust, and even the new "scowling" photograph in the Smithsonian is a calculated move to shape how we remember his time in power.
Why the Andrew Jackson Portrait Still Matters
The most famous piece of art from Trump's first term—and one that’s made a major comeback in his second—is the portrait of Andrew Jackson. Trump’s obsession with "Old Hickory" isn't a secret. He sees himself in Jackson: the populist outsider who came to D.G. to "drain the swamp" and fight for the common man.
During his first term, Trump used a version of the Jackson portrait on loan from the U.S. Naval Academy. For his second term, he’s swapped it for a "fresh" version from the White House’s own collection. It’s not just about aesthetics. In 2017, this painting caused a massive stir when Trump stood in front of it to honor Navajo Code Talkers. Critics pointed out the irony, given Jackson’s role in the Trail of Tears. But Trump didn't budge. He doubled down.
By keeping Jackson front and center, Trump is making a statement about his own political DNA. He’s telling you that the establishment hasn't changed him. If anything, he’s leaning harder into that 19th-century "man of the people" vibe.
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The Smithsonian Swap: A New Kind of "Official" Look
If you’ve visited the National Portrait Gallery lately, you might have noticed something weird. Most presidents get a big, detailed plaque explaining their life, their wins, and their controversies. Not Trump. As of January 2026, his display has been stripped down to the bare essentials.
The old photo—a more traditional, hands-folded shot by Matt McClain—is gone. In its place is a black-and-white photograph by Daniel Torok. It’s intense. Trump is leaning over the Resolute Desk, fists clenched, looking straight into the lens with a furrowed brow. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said the goal was to make sure his "unmatched aura" is felt.
But here’s the kicker: the text that used to mention his two impeachments and the events of January 6? Deleted. Now it just lists his years in office. It’s a literal blank space on the wall where history used to be. This is how the battle over Trump oval office portraits is moving from the West Wing to our national museums. He’s not just decorating; he’s editing.
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The "Golden Age" Overhaul
You’ve probably heard people call the current Oval Office "gaudy" or "royal." Honestly, it’s just very Trump. He’s gone full Versailles. We’re talking:
- Gold trimming on the ceiling, door frames, and the fireplace.
- Golden cherubim (yes, really) that were reportedly shipped in from Mar-a-Lago to sit above the doors.
- Gold coasters with his name on them.
- Military flags for every service branch, which he brought back after they were removed during the Biden years.
There are now nearly 20 paintings of past presidents squeezed onto the walls. Biden had six. Trump has turned the office into a sort of historical crowded house, surrounding himself with the ghosts of George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Jefferson. It’s a lot to take in. Some artists, like Jack White, have trashed the look, comparing it to a wrestler's dressing room. But for Trump’s supporters, it’s the "glistening" look of a confident leader.
What happened to the "distorted" portrait?
There’s also the saga of the Colorado State Capitol portrait. Trump went on a tear against artist Sarah Boardman, calling her painting of him "truly the worst" and "purposefully distorted." He even claimed she "lost her talent." It’s pretty brutal for the artist—her 41-year career took a hit because the President didn't like how his chin looked in a painting. That portrait was taken down and replaced with something he preferred. It just goes to show: if it’s an image of him, he’s going to have an opinion on it.
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How to Spot the Difference
If you're trying to track how the office changes, look for these specific "Trump touches" that define his current term:
- The Rug: He ditched the Biden/Obama era rugs for a 10-meter-wide golden-tinged carpet featuring quotes from Lincoln and TR.
- The Busts: Winston Churchill is back. He’s sitting right near the fireplace, exactly where he was before Biden moved him out.
- The Assassination Painting: One of the newest additions is a rendering of Trump with his fist raised after the Pennsylvania attempt in 2024. It’s a raw, modern piece of political art sitting in one of the most historic rooms in the world.
The Practical Side of Presidential Art
Most people think these portraits are just for show, but they serve as a backdrop for every single "readout" and world leader meeting. When Trump meets with someone like Zelenskyy, the art behind them is chosen to project power.
If you're interested in the history of the White House, don't just look at the person in the chair—look at the walls. The shift from Biden’s focus on science (the Benjamin Franklin portrait) and social justice (the RFK and MLK busts) to Trump’s focus on military strength and "Great Men" of history tells you everything you need to know about the current administration's priorities.
Next Steps for Art Buffs:
If you want to see the evolution for yourself, the White House Historical Association recently updated their "The People’s House" exhibit with a full-scale replica of the current Oval Office. It’s the best way to see the "goldening" up close without a security clearance. You can also track the official GPO (Government Publishing Office) website, where the new 2025-2029 official photo portraits are now available for public purchase. Just keep an eye on the Smithsonian—as they "refresh" the presidential gallery this spring, expect more changes to how these portraits are framed for history.