The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery has updated the wall text accompanying its portrait of former President Donald Trump, removing references to his two impeachments. The change, reported Sunday, also eliminates information about the events of his presidency.
A Shift in Presentation
According to a statement from a Smithsonian spokesperson, the National Portrait Gallery began a planned update to its “America’s Presidents” gallery, which includes new labels and wall text. The spokesperson explained that the museum is exploring the use of “quotes or tombstone labels” for some exhibits, providing only basic information like the artist’s name.
The new text accompanying the portrait identifies Trump’s birth year, his status as the 45th and 47th president, the dates of his presidency, and details about the photograph and its photographer, Daniel Torok.
Broader Context
This change comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the Smithsonian’s handling of historical and political narratives. In March, Trump signed an executive order aiming to eliminate what he termed “divisive race-centered ideology” from Smithsonian museums. Later, the White House ordered a “comprehensive internal review” of eight Smithsonian museums, including the National Portrait Gallery.
The National Museum of American History also removed references to Trump’s impeachments from an exhibit in July.
Further Developments
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. However, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle told The New York Times that the new portrait is an “iconic photo” and that Trump’s “unmatched aura will be seen and felt throughout the halls of the National Portrait Gallery.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly was removed from the portrait’s display?
The wall text no longer mentions that Donald Trump was impeached twice by the House of Representatives, nor does it include any information about the events that occurred during his presidency.
What is the Smithsonian’s explanation for the change?
According to a spokesperson, the National Portrait Gallery is undergoing a planned update to its “America’s Presidents” gallery, and is exploring the use of simpler “quotes or tombstone labels” for some displays.
Has this happened with other presidential portraits?
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History removed references to Trump’s two impeachments from an exhibit in July.
As the Smithsonian continues to navigate its role in presenting American history, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact public understanding and engagement with the past.
