The White House has moved the portraits of three former presidents — including Barack Obama — to a spot where visitors can’t see them, according to a CNN report.
Sources told CNN that President Donald Trump directed staff to move Obama’s official portrait to the top of the Grand Staircase. This staircase leads to the private residence, an area off-limits to most people except the president’s family, Secret Service, and certain staff members.
Portraits of former Presidents George W. Bush and George H.W. Bush were also moved to this hidden location.
Traditionally, the portraits of the most recent presidents are displayed near the White House entrance, where visitors can easily view them. CNN’s sources said Trump often takes part in making changes to the building’s appearance.
The change comes as tensions grow between Trump and Obama. Last month, National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard accused Obama of leading a “years-long coup” against Trump. She released declassified emails, claiming they showed a plot by Obama and his team related to the 2016 Russian election interference investigation. Days later, Trump accused Obama of “treason.”
Obama’s spokesperson, Patrick Rodenbush, dismissed the accusations, calling them “bizarre” and “ridiculous.” He said the documents didn’t challenge the widely accepted finding that Russia tried to influence the 2016 election but didn’t change any votes. Russia has denied the claims.
Trump has also had conflicts with both Bush presidents. In 2017, George H.W. Bush called Trump a “blowhard” and backed Hillary Clinton in the 2016 race. In 2021, Trump called George W. Bush a “failed and uninspiring” leader.
