Bulwark Takes: "This Painting Broke Donald Trump. Let’s Take A Look" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: March 24, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosted by The Bulwark team members Sam and John, the discussion centers around a controversial painting of former President Donald Trump displayed at the Colorado State Capitol in Denver. The episode delves into the public's reaction, the artist's portrayal, political implications, and broader commentary on presidential representations in art.

1. The Controversial Painting and Trump's Reaction

The episode opens with Sam presenting the main topic: a distorted painting of Donald Trump unveiled at the Colorado State Capitol. This piece, commissioned by Governor Jared Polis, has sparked significant backlash, including criticism from Trump himself.

• Sam [00:30]: "Nobody likes a bad picture or painting of themselves. But the one in Colorado... was purposefully distorted to a level that even I perhaps have never seen before."

Trump's displeasure stems from the exaggerated features in the painting, which many, including Sam, find unflattering and poorly executed.

2. Public and Political Backlash

The painting has not only upset Trump but also ignited anger among Colorado residents. Sam emphasizes that the governor is perceived as responding to the populace's discontent rather than addressing it personally.

• Sam [00:24]: "Many people from Colorado have called and written to complain. In fact, they are actually angry about it."

Governor Jared Polis faces criticism for his handling of the situation, with Sam attributing broader frustrations to Polis's perceived weakness on crime and governance.

• Sam [00:40]: "Jared should be ashamed of himself."

3. Artistic Analysis of the Painting

John and Sam engage in a detailed critique of the painting's artistic merits—or lack thereof. They discuss the distortion of Trump's features, particularly focusing on his jowls and mouth, which many find exaggerated and unflattering.

• Sam [02:05]: "It's a hideous painting of Trump... it looks like he's got marbles in his mouth."

• John [02:21]: "No, it's growing on me. When I first saw it... it blends into the collar, which is like, you know, it's all thick."

Despite the initial negativity, both hosts acknowledge that prolonged viewing makes the painting somewhat more palatable, though they remain critical overall.

4. Governor Jared Polis's Response

Governor Polis's official statement addressed the controversy with a focus on improving the visitor experience at the Capitol. However, Sam suggests that Polis's response lacks substance and fails to address the core issues raised by the public.

• Sam [05:55]: "Mr. Polis was surprised to learn the President of the United States is an aficionado of our Colorado State Capitol and its artwork."

Sam criticizes the governor for not taking decisive action to rectify the situation, implying that the response was merely perfunctory.

5. Broader Implications and Comparisons

Transitioning from the main topic, Sam and John compare the Trump painting's reception to other poor representations in public art. They cite examples of less favorable sculptures and portraits of sports figures like Dwyane Wade and Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting a trend of contentious public art.

• Sam [08:25]: "Poor Dwyane Wade. Can you imagine being him when they reveal this?"

This segment underscores the challenges and controversies surrounding public art and its subjects, emphasizing the fine line between artistic expression and public expectation.

6. Personal Anecdotes and Reflections

Sam shares personal experiences related to his time working at the governor's office, providing context to his insights and reinforcing his connection to the Capitol's art and administrative processes.

• Sam [07:06]: "My first job was I read the governor's mail. I read the governor's mail in the bowels of the Capitol."

These anecdotes add depth to the discussion, illustrating Sam's long-standing relationship with Colorado's political and cultural landscape.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Sam and John reiterating their skepticism about the quality and reception of the Trump painting. They express doubt that it is the "worst portrait out there" but acknowledge that it stands out negatively among public artworks.

• Sam [07:43]: "I don't think this is nearly the worst portrait out there."

Their final thoughts emphasize the ongoing debate about artistic representation of public figures and the responsibilities of both artists and political leaders in such endeavors.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sam [00:30]: "Nobody likes a bad picture or painting of themselves."
• Sam [02:05]: "It's a hideous painting of Trump... it looks like he's got marbles in his mouth."
• John [02:21]: "No, it's growing on me. When I first saw it... it blends into the collar."
• Sam [05:55]: "Mr. Polis was surprised to learn the President of the United States is an aficionado of our Colorado State Capitol and its artwork."
• Sam [08:25]: "Poor Dwyane Wade. Can you imagine being him when they reveal this?"
• Sam [07:06]: "My first job was I read the governor's mail. I read the governor's mail in the bowels of the Capitol."
• Sam [07:43]: "I don't think this is nearly the worst portrait out there."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a critical examination of how public art can become a focal point for political and personal grievances. Through Sam and John's engaging discussion, listeners gain insight into the complexities of artistic representation, public perception, and political accountability.