Trump's harsh critique leads to portrait removal in Colorado

In Colorado, a new presidential portrait of Donald Trump was installed at the state Capitol following the removal of a controversial previous version that had been on display since 2019. The Colorado state Capitol in Denver was the site of significant public scrutiny and backlash against the earlier portrait created by local artist Sarah Boardman. Trump took to social media in spring 2025, expressing dissatisfaction with Boardman's interpretation of his likeness, stating that she had intentionally distorted his image, a claim Boardman denied. The public outcry from his remarks triggered lawmakers to announce plans for the portrait's removal. Within days of Trump's comments, the portrait was taken down and placed in museum storage. Subsequently, a new portrait by Tempe, Arizona, artist Vanessa Horabuena was donated by the White House and quickly installed as a replacement. Horabuena, known for her religious artwork, has created several depictions of Trump and other prominent figures. Lois Court, chair of the Capitol Building Advisory Committee, justified the decision to install Horabuena's work, stating that there was an empty space on the wall that needed filling. Although the portrait is currently on display, there is speculation that it may not remain as state lawmakers are considering a complete reevaluation of the Capitol's presidential portrait collection in light of an upcoming anniversary of Colorado statehood.