The White House has undergone a controversial historical makeover, with officials installing new, highly opinionated plaques beneath the portraits of former presidents. The changes to what is now called the 'Presidential Walk of Fame' reflect Donald Trump's personal views, turning a traditional display into a platform for his political grievances and praise.
A Partisan Rewriting of Presidential History
Rather than providing neutral biographical summaries, the new texts mirror the tone of Trump's posts on his Truth Social network. The most scathing assessment is reserved for his immediate predecessor. The plaque for Joe Biden labels him 'Sleepy Joe' and declares him 'by far, the worst President in American History', falsely claiming he took office 'as a result of the most corrupt Election ever seen'.
Barack Obama is described as 'one of the most divisive political figures', with his signature healthcare law mocked as the 'Unaffordable Care Act'. The text credits Republican electoral gains to Obama's presidency. In a pointed dig, the plaque for Bill Clinton minimises his achievements, instead highlighting Republican congressional work and Trump's own decision to end the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It also notes that 'President Clinton’s wife, Hillary, lost the Presidency to President Donald J. Trump!'
Praise for Allies and a Conspicuous Omission
By contrast, presidents viewed favourably by Trump receive glowing tributes. Ronald Reagan's plaque is filled with admiration, noting his landslide re-election and high approval. It adds a personal touch, stating: 'He was a fan of President Donald J. Trump long before President Trump’s Historic run for the White House. Likewise, President Trump was a fan of his!'
The display, located outside the West Wing, features every US president in order with one notable exception. Biden's official portrait has been removed entirely. In its place is an image of an autopen, a device used for automatic signatures, referencing baseless Republican claims about his use of the machine.
Political Context and Falling Poll Numbers
This act of historical 'trolling' comes at a delicate political moment for Trump. According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, his approval rating has slipped to nearly the lowest of his current term at 39%, as some within his own party express dissatisfaction with his handling of the economy.
The move also follows widespread criticism of Trump's response to the murder of actor-director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele. On social media, Trump crassly suggested Reiner died due to 'TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME'. Furthermore, the mockery of the Affordable Care Act coincides with a looming US healthcare crisis, as subsidies for the programme are set to expire at year's end, a move experts warn will seriously damage the sector.
The installation of these plaques signifies a broader effort by Trump to reshape the White House environment in his own image, permanently etching his partisan commentary into the very fabric of the presidential residence.
