‘MAGA’ – Mixed reactions as US releases Donald Trump’s new portrait ahead of January 20 inauguration
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The United States of America (USA) has released presidential portrait of President-elect, Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration on January 20.
Vice President-elect JD Vance’s photo was also taken, with the former Ohio senator ready to work alongside Trump in the White House.
Trump’s inauguration will mark the start of his second non-consecutive term as President of the United States. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
A video showcasing the inauguration invitation and the portraits has continued to generate admiration from social media users.
Supporters of Trump hailed the portrait as a symbolic glimpse into what they anticipate will be a defining second term for the Republican leader.
“Just in: The official portrait of the 47th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump. This goes hard. Total mugshot vibes,” an X user wrote.
“Trump looks very serious and ready to get things done,” another user who is a Trump supporter remarked.
Another wrote, “He looks very presidential,” while a third declared, “He looks like he means business!”
“Make America Great Again 😍” Antonio Castillo wrote on Facebook.
Lydia Franco also a Facebook user said; “Tough lookin guy not like Biden Real man , finally a Real President and ready to make America Great ! Thank God.”
However, the portrait has also sparked comparisons to Trump’s viral mugshot from August 2023, taken when he surrendered at Fulton County Jail in Atlanta, Georgia. Trump had been indicted on racketeering charges by a grand jury, but the event unexpectedly bolstered his popularity among his base.
The mugshot’s cultural impact has been significant, with Trump raising $US7.1 million in merchandise sales featuring the image. Stephen Miller, a former adviser to Trump, remarked on the enduring power of the photograph, stating in an interview with Fox News host Jesse Waters, that “the mugshot is the ‘most powerful image’ I’ve seen.”
Tam Lin Bee, a Facebook user in his reaction said; “Not much different than his mugshot.”
Another user, Amanda Alvarado reacted; “You voted for a convicted felon you got it!!😡🤡”
Stacey Skye, also a Facebook user wrote; “This is not the face I need to see before bed. Now I hope I don’t have any nightmares. January 20 is DOOM day!”
“So, this is going to be hanging at all the border crossings and federal agencies?” @ZRWJ_ on X wondered.
@NAFOndue said; “Another waste of taxpayer’s money. He already had a recent mugshot.”
President Trump’s official portrait . Amazing pic.twitter.com/b9g18Zkwtr
— 🇺🇸LEO LIBERTAD (@LLeontravelart) January 15, 2025
2017 / 2025.
Portrait officiel de Trump. pic.twitter.com/sNO8M54JqA
— Alexis Poulin (@Poulin2012) January 16, 2025