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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has installed a series of personalized plaques beneath the portraits of former U.S. presidents in the White House's newly created "Presidential Walk of Fame," offering subjective and often critical descriptions of their legacies. The additions, first noticed by visitors and reported publicly on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, reflect Trump's distinctive style, blending praise for allies with sharp insults for political adversaries like Joe Biden and Barack Obama.
Located in the colonnade connecting the West Wing to the residence, the exhibit features gilded frames around each president's portrait, accompanied by plaques that Trump reportedly authored or oversaw himself. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the plaques as "eloquently written descriptions of each President and the legacy they left behind," noting that many were penned directly by Trump, a self-proclaimed "student of history." An introductory plaque explains the display was "conceived, built, and dedicated by President Donald J. Trump as a tribute to past Presidents, good, bad, and somewhere in the middle."
The descriptions vary in tone but often incorporate Trump's personal grievances and nicknames. For Joe Biden, the 46th president, the plaque labels him "Sleepy Joe" and declares him "by far, the worst President in American History." It accuses Biden of assuming office through "the most corrupt Election ever seen in the United States," echoing Trump's unsubstantiated claims about the 2020 election. The text criticizes Biden's handling of inflation, energy policy, immigration, and foreign affairs, calling the Inflation Reduction Act the "Green New Scam" and blaming him for the "Afghanistan Disaster," which it describes as "among the most humiliating events in American History." It further alleges that Biden's "devastating weakness" emboldened Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The plaque references Biden's "humiliating debate loss to President Trump in the big June 2024 debate," after which he "was forced to withdraw from his campaign for re-election in disgrace."
Barack Obama's plaque refers to him by his full name, "Barack Hussein Obama," a phrasing often used derisively in conservative circles. It describes the 44th president as "one of the most divisive Presidents in American history," accusing him of exacerbating racial tensions and implementing policies that weakened the economy and national security.
In contrast, the plaque for Ronald Reagan, the 40th president and a Republican icon, is complimentary, noting that Reagan was "a fan of Trump before Trump ran for president." It highlights Reagan's admiration for a young Trump, drawing parallels between their "America First" approaches.
Other presidents receive mixed reviews. George W. Bush is criticized for starting wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, which the plaque says "should not have happened." Bill Clinton's description alludes to his impeachment and personal scandals, while Jimmy Carter is portrayed as ineffective. Notably, Biden is the only president without a gilded portrait; instead, an autopen signature mocks his age and fitness for office.
These plaques are part of broader White House modifications under Trump, including adorning the Oval Office with gold accents and planning to raze part of the East Wing for a massive ballroom estimated at $400 million. The administration has also influenced Smithsonian exhibits on U.S. history and is shaping commemorations for the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026.
Reactions have been swift and divided. Critics, including historians and Democrats, decry the plaques as partisan vandalism of a national institution. "This turns the White House into a personal propaganda tool," said one anonymous former staffer. Supporters praise it as Trump's unfiltered take on history, with Leavitt defending the exhibit as educational.
Social media amplified the story, with posts and videos from outlets like ABC News and local affiliates showcasing the plaques. Historians note that while presidents personalize the White House, this level of overt partisanship is unprecedented.
The Walk of Fame, installed in September 2025, now serves as a quirky attraction for visitors, blending reverence with Trump's signature bravado. As the administration advances, such changes underscore Trump's approach to reshaping presidential symbols.
Biden and Obama have not publicly responded, but allies dismissed the plaques as petty. Reagan's family expressed surprise at the "fan" claim, though archival letters show mutual admiration.
This episode reflects Trump's post-election style, prioritizing bold gestures over convention. With ongoing policy shifts, the plaques symbolize his intent to redefine historical narratives.
The White House has not announced tours, but interest is high amid viral coverage. As 2026 approaches, expect more such personal touches from the 47th president.
