Internet reacts to Donald Trump’s inaugural portrait: 'JUMPSCARE OMG, PUT A TRIGGER WARNING'

Trump’s inaugural portrait goes viral, with users mocking its resemblance to his mugshot and calling him a dictator.

As preparations for Donald Trump’s second inauguration intensify, the president-elect’s official portrait has become the subject of widespread attention and, in many cases, ridicule. 

Set for January 20, 2025, Trump’s inauguration will mark the start of his second non-consecutive term as President of the United States. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

First look at 47’s official inaugural portrait! 😍@TeamTrump pic.twitter.com/7m6otmDQJw

— Daniel Torok (@dto_rok) January 15, 2025

Trump’s presidential portraits for his 1st and 2nd term. (This is real.) pic.twitter.com/C0UY3cYJ8c

— Molly Ploofkins™ (@Mollyploofkins) January 15, 2025

However, just days before the grand event, a new wave of criticism has emerged, fueled by the release of Trump’s official inauguration portrait. 

Many observers took to social media to draw comparisons between the image and Trump’s infamous mugshot, taken in August 2023 after his arrest at Fulton County Jail in Atlanta. 

The mugshot, which went viral, was seen as an emblem of defiance, raising millions in merchandise sales. Trump’s official portrait, captured by chief photographer Daniel Torok, features a similarly stern and commanding expression that has sparked further internet chatter.

One user reacted with a startling comment, saying, "JUMPSCARE OMG, PUT A TRIGGER WARNING NEXT TIME."

JUMPSCARE OMG, PUT A TRIGGER WARNING NEXT TIME

— steven ☀️ (@arianaunext) January 15, 2025

 Others were quick to criticize the portrait’s appearance, with one writing, "Imagine even after photoshop you look like this." 

Imagine even after photoshop you look like this 😭

— paulie ⚓️ (@ratedpaulie) January 15, 2025

Many observers noticed a certain authoritarian vibe to the image, with another critic remarking, "He looks like a dictator get him out." Adding to the concerns, one more person noted, “He looks like he had a stroke.”

Despite the critiques, many of Trump’s supporters praised the portrait. "Trump looks very serious and ready to get things done," one supporter remarked. 

Another wrote, "He looks very presidential," while a third declared, “He looks like he means business!”

The look in President Trump's eyes has changed.

Despite the evil Deep State throwing everything they had at this man, even trying to assassinate him MANY times, he PREVAILED and WON!

God protected him and WE THE PEOPLE are returning him to his RIGHTFUL WHITE HOUSE!

5 days. pic.twitter.com/xj87eYUk22

— Bo Loudon (@BoLoudon) January 15, 2025

The portrait’s striking resemblance to Trump’s mugshot sparked an online debate, with some even suggesting the mugshot would have made a better choice for the official portrait. "Should have used the mugshot," was a sentiment echoed by many on social media.

As the inauguration day approaches, the excitement is palpable. It promises to be a historic and controversial event, featuring not only Trump’s return to the White House but also musical performances by high-profile artists such as Lee Greenwood, Carrie Underwood, Kid Rock, and Billy Ray Cyrus. 

The day’s events will include a formal swearing-in ceremony, an inaugural address, and a celebratory parade, with a “Make America Great Again” rally and fireworks displays. Meanwhile, many Democratic members of Congress have announced plans to boycott the ceremony.

Trump’s portrait and the swirling commentary surrounding it set the tone for what promises to be a tense and divisive second term. The inauguration is sure to be a spectacle as the nation braces for the next phase of Trump’s political journey.