A portrait of Donald Trump displayed at the Colorado State Capitol is set to be removed following the former president’s claims that it was “purposefully distorted.” The decision to take down the painting comes at the request of Republican legislators, as confirmed by House Democrats who remarked that it is up to the GOP to prioritise such matters.
The oil painting, created by artist Sarah Boardman, was unveiled in 2019 during Trump’s presidency and was funded by Colorado Republicans through a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $10,000 (approximately $15,900 AUD). In a recent post on his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed a preference for having no portrait instead of the one currently displayed, which he criticised for its perceived inaccuracies. He remarked that he had seen distorted representations of himself before, but claimed this one was of an unprecedented level.
Trump also commented positively on a nearby portrait of former President Barack Obama, also painted by Boardman, stating that Obama “looks wonderful.”
While the responsibility for these portraits lies with the Colorado Building Advisory Committee rather than the governor’s office, Trump’s remarks have drawn attention, leading to an increase in visitors posing for photos with the painting prior to the announcement of its removal.
As for reactions to the portrait, some visitors have shared mixed reviews. Aaron Howe, a tourist from Wyoming, noted the portrayal seemed “a little chubby” but acknowledged it was better than what he could create. Kaylee Williamson, an 18-year-old Trump supporter, felt the painting resembled him well and approved of it.
Boardman, the artist, did not respond to requests for comment but previously expressed her intention for the portraits of both Trump and Obama to appear “apolitical.” Trump’s critical remarks have since sparked further discussions, but the official decision has now been made to take down the contentious portrait.