Trump criticizes 'distorted' portrait in Colorado Capitol

Former President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with his portrait displayed in the Colorado State Capitol, calling it 'purposefully distorted' and criticizing Governor Jared Polis for its placement. Trump suggested that the artist, who also painted President Obama's portrait, lost her talent, as he found his depiction particularly unflattering compared to Obama's. Although Trump attributed the decision to hang the portrait to Governor Polis, it was actually a Republican-led initiative with fundraising efforts spearheaded by State Sen. Kevin Grantham in 2018. Trump claimed that many Coloradans have complained about the portrait and directed criticism at Polis over crime issues in Aurora, referencing the Tren de Aragua gang. The portrait, however, was part of a nonpartisan event organized by Colorado Republicans in 2019. Despite Trump's complaints, the Governor's office responded with surprise at Trump's interest in the state's Capitol artwork.