Former US President Donald Trump has strongly criticized Colorado Governor Jared Polis, accusing him of displaying a “purposefully distorted” and “truly worst” portrait of him in the state’s Capitol. Taking to Truth Social, Trump lashed out at the Democratic governor, claiming that the painting was an intentional misrepresentation.
“Jared should be ashamed of himself,” Trump wrote, blaming Polis for what he perceived as an unflattering portrayal. He also compared his portrait to that of former President Barack Obama, stating that Obama’s looked “wonderful,” while his own was the worst he had ever seen.
The Truth Behind the Portrait’s Installation
Despite Trump’s claims, Governor Polis was not involved in commissioning the portrait. The painting was actually funded and installed as part of a 2019 initiative led by a Republican state senator. The effort aimed to include portraits of all US presidents in the Colorado State Capitol, a process that often takes years.
Donald Trump is furious about a portrait of him hanging in Colorado’s State Capitol, calling it ‘the worst’ and claiming it ‘was purposefully distorted to a level that even I, perhaps, have never seen before.’
Trump is such a petty, insecure baby. pic.twitter.com/M0Zk1X1LdI
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) March 24, 2025
Trump, however, remained adamant that Polis was responsible for the artwork, adding that many Colorado residents had reached out to him, expressing outrage over the portrait. “I would much prefer not having a picture than having this one,” he wrote.
Governor’s Response and Mixed Reactions
In response to Trump’s comments, the Colorado Governor’s Office issued a statement to FOX31, expressing surprise at the former president’s sudden interest in Capitol artwork. “Governor Polis was surprised to learn the President of the United States is an aficionado of our Colorado State Capitol and its artwork,” the statement read.
Interestingly, some Trump supporters had previously praised the portrait. Jerry Grotkier, who attended the unveiling ceremony in 2019, said the painting did Trump “great justice,” noting that he had seen far less flattering portrayals of the former president in the past.
While Trump’s demand for the portrait’s removal has gained traction among his supporters, state officials have made no indication that any changes will be made.
