The Debate Over Trump's Portrait in the White House: A Look at Tradition and Decency
Will the 45th President, Donald Trump, have an official portrait hanging in the White House? This question has sparked debate among Americans and history enthusiasts alike. The answer, as it often is with the Trump administration, is not straightforward.
Portrait Funding and Ceremony
Traditionally, no one pays for the portraits of former presidents, a cost borne by the sitting President and the Office of the First Lady. However, under Trump's administration, this practice was not followed. The White House portraits office has stated that portraits are paid for by the subject themselves, making it unlikely that Traitor Trump would contribute financially. Therefore, the question now becomes whether President Biden will hang the portrait, given the history and current political climate.
It is worth noting that President Biden has a ceremony for unveiling a former President's portrait, a tradition that underscores the importance of honoring past leaders. Biden has no plans to hold a ceremony for Trump’s portrait. Instead, one of Trump’s official White House photos will be displayed at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery, a common practice when a new Administration takes over.
History and Tradition
Despite the fractured relationship between the 45th President and his successor, the White House has a deep respect for its history and tradition. Joe Biden, with his sense of history and traditional values, is likely to uphold these customs. He is known for his sense of decency and respect for democratic norms, which suggests that he will not hold such an event as a form of revenge against his predecessor.
Circular Reasoning and Public Opinion
Some may believe that displaying Trump’s portrait in the White House goes against the public’s wishes, given the negative sentiment towards the former President. However, public opinion is a complex matter. While many American citizens may be relieved to see the end of the Trump presidency, there are still those who recognize the historical significance of having an official portrait of every former President. Furthermore, even among those who dislike Trump, there could be a sentiment of resolving rather than escalating past issues.
Location and Symbolism
For some, the concept of hanging a portrait of Trump in the White House could be seen as a stain, perhaps it should be hung in a less prominent place, such as a porta potty near the White House. While this is not a serious suggestion, it illustrates the deep divide in public perception.
Regardless of the location, the symbolism of a portrait in the White House remains significant. It represents the continuity of the institution and the acknowledgment of the role each President played. Joe Biden’s decision to display the portrait, if he chooses to do so, would be a nod to this symbolism.
Whether Trump is in prison or not, the decision to display his portrait would be an act of recognition. Unlike Trump, who was obsessed with personal vindication, Biden is known for his sense of justice and understanding of the larger historical context.
As history shows, even figures who were controversial or even disliked in their tenure, often find a place in the annals of American history. This is not out of a desire for revenge, but rather an acceptance that history needs to be recorded and studied to provide context for future generations.
In conclusion, while the debate over Trump’s portrait in the White House continues, the decision rests with President Joe Biden. Will he respect tradition and honor the role of every President, or will he confine this history to a less visible location? The answer may reflect the values that underpin his presidency.
Keywords: White House portrait, Trump, Biden