The photo was released as part of a series of official images ahead of the inauguration ceremony, which will take place on Monday, January 22.
While the portrait’s serious tone has certainly sparked conversation, it wasn’t the only new image released.
A portrait of the incoming vice president, JD Vance, also made its debut, showing him smiling with his arms folded.
Vance’s portrait contrasted sharply with Trump’s, adding to the playful commentary on social media.
As the inauguration nears, Trump and Vance are preparing to take their oaths of office on Monday, ushering in a new chapter in American politics.
Performers like country star Carrie Underwood will be part of the ceremony, and former President Joe Biden is expected to attend, despite their political differences.
The event will also see the participation of the other living former presidents, including Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, as they gather to witness this momentous occasion.
The image, which shows the president-elect in a serious pose with a furrowed brow, appears to share a striking resemblance to his infamous mugshot taken in August 2023.
In both photos, Trump gazes directly at the camera, and the angle of his head is nearly identical, leading many to make comparisons between the two.
While the resemblance between the two photos is undeniable, it’s unclear whether this was intentional or simply coincidental.
Some critics, however, can’t help but find the similarity amusing.
In August 2023, Donald Trump was photographed in a mugshot after being booked in Georgia on charges related to allegedly attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in the state.
His mugshot marked a historic moment, as it was the first time in U.S. history that a former president had been arrested and photographed in such a manner.
The comparison between this mugshot and his newly released inauguration portrait quickly became a talking point on social media, with fans and critics alike making light of the situation.
Many have taken to social media to share their reactions, with some poking fun at the striking similarity.
One user tweeted: “Is this his mugshot for the second term?” while another joked: “The only thing missing in this picture is the height marker on the wall.”
The comparisons continued to flood in, with one fan humorously writing: “Inaugural photo or booking photo? You decide.”
