Trump’s partisan plaques spark national debate and reactions
PUBLISHED Dec 17, 2025, 2:53 PM ET
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Washington, President Donald Trump installed partisan plaques beneath predecessors' portraits on the White House Presidential Walk of Fame this week, labeling Joe Biden Sleepy Joe and calling him by far the worst President in American history. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said many plaques were written by the president; images circulated and prompted mockery and critique, including from California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Media outlets noted the plaques repeat disputed claims about the 2020 election and criticized multiple former presidents. The installation generated widespread attention and commentary. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.
By James Porter | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Trump repurposed a West Wing walkway into the Presidential Walk of Fame.
- New plaques with partisan and personalized text were affixed beneath presidential portraits.
- Photographs and social media posts of the plaques circulated and were reported by media.
- White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed many plaques were written by the president.
- Political figures and commentators publicly mocked or criticized the plaques, sparking debate.
- Articles Published:
- 11
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 3
- Neutral:
- 7
- Distribution:
- Left 27%, Center 64%, Right 9%
President Donald Trump and his political allies benefited by reinforcing a personalized narrative and energizing supporters through the plaques.
Former presidents, nonpartisan White House traditions, and public confidence in neutral presidential symbolism suffered reputational and institutional strain.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
Trump's shouty prime-time address suggests he may not have another gear
Brisbane Times LGBTQ Nation DNyuzFrom Center
Trump’s partisan plaques spark national debate and reactions
My Northwest Winnipeg Free Press AP NEWS WSBT CBS News WRAL WHAS 11 LouisvilleFrom Right
Trump has partisan plaques added under photos in Presidential Walk of Fame
FOX 13 Tampa Bay
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