In brief
The Smithsonian has altered President Trump's photo display, removing references to his impeachments and changing the accompanying text. While a photograph remains, the lack of detailed information has drawn attention amid President Trump's expressed desire to shape historical narratives within federal institutions. The gallery intends to refresh its exhibits ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s photo portrait display at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery has had references to his two impeachments removed, the latest apparent change at the collection of museums he has accused of bias as he asserts his influence over how official presentations document U.S. history. The wall text, which summarized Trump’s first presidency and noted his comeback victory in 2024, was part of the museum’s American Presidents exhibition. Initially accompanying a photograph of Trump from his first term, the revised display now features just his image without any explanatory text block, although the original text remains accessible online. Trump was uniquely the only president in the gallery without extended text next to his portrait.The absence of commentary on Trump's impeachments raises questions about influence and oversight as the White House did not confirm whether they requested these changes. In August, Trump had directed a review of all exhibit presentations as the nation prepares for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The review aimed to align displays with a narrative celebrating American exceptionalism, ensuring there are no divisive or partisan interpretations.Amid his presidency, Trump's original portrait label detailed his Supreme Court nominations and noted the dual impeachments he faced—charges of abuse of power and incitement of insurrection after the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, both leading to acquittals by the Senate. The summary concluded with: After losing to Joe Biden in 2020, Trump mounted a historic comeback in the 2024 election, making him the only president, along with Grover Cleveland, to achieve a nonconsecutive second term.Ingle celebrated the new photograph for capturing Trump's essence, emphasizing its importance in documenting history at the National Portrait Gallery. The portrait was captured by White House photographer Daniel Torok, who is credited in the display that features Trump as the 45th and 47th president. This portrait process follows tradition where sitting presidents are represented by photographs until commissioned paintings are finalized.This narrative reshaping goes beyond Trump's portrait; it reflects his broader strategy of influencing how U.S. history is presented in cultural institutions. Reports also indicate the continued representation of impeachment history in museums, contrasting with Trump's removal from the narrative. As the gallery plans a substantial refresh of its exhibit for spring, the Smithsonian stated it seeks to develop general information labels in some new displays.For now, while references to past impeachments remain intact for Presidents Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, Trump's historical representation continues to evolve amid political agendas and cultural discussions surrounding his leadership impact.
