The newly released official portraits of US President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance reveal distinct contrasts in demeanor and public persona just days before their inauguration on January 20.
Trump and Vance Unveil Official Portraits Ahead of Inauguration

Trump and Vance Unveil Official Portraits Ahead of Inauguration
Official images released show contrasting demeanors of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance.
The portraits showcase Trump and Vance side by side, both dressed in similar blue suits, white shirts, and blue ties, with Trump notably displaying a small US flag pin on his lapel. However, their expressions diverge significantly: Trump’s gaze is lowered, his eyebrow raised, and his lips pressed in a firm line, evoking a sense of seriousness. In contrast, Vance beams at the camera, his arms crossed in a relaxed manner, encapsulating a sense of approachability.
Trump's latest portrait has drawn notable comparisons to his infamous 2023 mugshot taken in Fulton County Jail as he faced charges related to the 2020 election. The mugshot, which Trump used to rally fundraising support, has become a potent symbol of his defiance amid legal struggles. This latest portrayal marks a significant departure from his 2017 presidential portrait, where he is seen smiling broadly.
Political analysts suggest this shift in presentation reflects a more combative approach as Trump readies for a return to the White House. Quardricos Driskell, a political science professor, commented on the new portrait's potential implications, positing that it symbolizes resilience and a transformation in Trump’s public image, possibly indicating a shift toward a tougher persona ahead of the upcoming inauguration.
The portraits were officially unveiled by the Trump-Vance transition team just prior to their inauguration, contrasting with the delayed release of Trump’s first official portrait alongside former Vice President Mike Pence, which took almost nine months after their initial swearing-in.
With the inauguration drawing near, these portraits serve as a strategic image management tool, possibly setting the tone for Trump and Vance's new administration as they step back into office.
Trump's latest portrait has drawn notable comparisons to his infamous 2023 mugshot taken in Fulton County Jail as he faced charges related to the 2020 election. The mugshot, which Trump used to rally fundraising support, has become a potent symbol of his defiance amid legal struggles. This latest portrayal marks a significant departure from his 2017 presidential portrait, where he is seen smiling broadly.
Political analysts suggest this shift in presentation reflects a more combative approach as Trump readies for a return to the White House. Quardricos Driskell, a political science professor, commented on the new portrait's potential implications, positing that it symbolizes resilience and a transformation in Trump’s public image, possibly indicating a shift toward a tougher persona ahead of the upcoming inauguration.
The portraits were officially unveiled by the Trump-Vance transition team just prior to their inauguration, contrasting with the delayed release of Trump’s first official portrait alongside former Vice President Mike Pence, which took almost nine months after their initial swearing-in.
With the inauguration drawing near, these portraits serve as a strategic image management tool, possibly setting the tone for Trump and Vance's new administration as they step back into office.