Former President Donald Trump has requested a new official portrait to replace the one painted by artist Ronald Sherr, which was completed in 2022 and ready for acceptance by the National Portrait Gallery. The White House stated Trump wants a portrait that reflects the full scope of his time in office, including both his 45th and potential 47th terms, as he is currently running for president again.
The situation highlights the intersection of art, politics, and institutional protocol. The National Portrait Gallery, which maintains the official collection, typically does not hang a portrait until a president has permanently left office, creating a conflict with Trump's request and his ongoing political career. It also underscores the tradition of presidential portraiture and the contemporary artists often selected for Democratic presidents, while raising questions about how to handle portraits for living, politically active former presidents.