The National Portrait Gallery, part of the Smithsonian Institution, has recently updated its display of President Donald Trump's portrait. The changes include the removal of a placard that previously noted Trump's two impeachments and the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by his supporters. The updated display now features a new black-and-white portrait taken by White House photographer Daniel Torok, accompanied by a simplified label that only states Trump's birth date and his positions as the 45th and 47th president.

Previously, the label provided significant context, detailing Trump's impeachments on charges of abuse of power and incitement of insurrection, as well as his acquittal by the Senate. The Smithsonian has indicated that it is exploring a more minimalist approach for future exhibitions, which may include general information rather than detailed historical context. Despite these changes, the institution has stated that the history of presidential impeachments will still be represented in other Smithsonian museums, such as the National Museum of American History.

The alterations come amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to influence how historical narratives are presented in cultural institutions. In March 2021, Trump signed an executive order aimed at restricting funding for exhibits that he claimed could undermine shared American values or promote divisive ideologies. This initiative included a review of Smithsonian materials, with officials expressing that the American public expects museums to convey a positive view of American history.

The changes have drawn attention due to the contrast with how other impeached presidents, such as Bill Clinton and Andrew Johnson, are portrayed, as their displays continue to include references to their impeachments. Additionally, the Smithsonian has faced scrutiny over its portrayal of sensitive historical topics, including slavery, and has dealt with personnel changes, including the resignation of National Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet, who was criticized for her perceived partisanship and support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

While the White House has not confirmed direct involvement in the recent changes to Trump's portrait display, the adjustments reflect ongoing tensions between the Smithsonian and the Trump administration regarding the presentation of American history.