- Pete Souza, Barack Obama's official White House photographer, criticized the decision to move Obama's portrait to a less visible area of the White House.
- Souza described the move as “pretty petty” and questioned if the motives were “petty or racist,” suggesting Obama occupies a significant space in Donald Trump's thoughts.
- The portraits of three presidents, including Obama, were reportedly moved by White House staff to the top of the Grand Staircase, an area restricted to family, Secret Service, and select staff.
- Souza highlighted that this action breaks a longstanding tradition where recent presidential portraits are displayed in prominent areas like the Grand Foyer for public viewing.
- The relocation of Obama's portrait occurs amidst heightened tensions between Donald Trump and Obama, marked by Trump's unsubstantiated accusations.
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