Fact Check: "Presidential portraits are often commissioned after a president's term ends."
What We Know
The claim that presidential portraits are often commissioned after a president's term ends is partially supported by historical practices. In the United States, it is customary for a president to have an official portrait painted after leaving office. This tradition dates back to the early days of the republic, with the first official presidential portrait being that of George Washington, commissioned in 1792.
Typically, the portraits are commissioned by the White House Historical Association and are unveiled in a ceremony attended by the former president and current officials. For example, the portraits of Barack Obama and George W. Bush were commissioned after their presidencies and unveiled in ceremonies at the White House (source).
However, the timing and circumstances surrounding these commissions can vary. While most recent presidents have had their portraits commissioned after their terms, there have been exceptions. For instance, some presidents have opted to delay or forgo the commissioning of their portraits for various reasons, including personal preference or political circumstances (source).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is grounded in the established tradition of commissioning presidential portraits after a president's term ends. The White House Historical Association plays a significant role in this process, ensuring that the portraits are created and displayed appropriately (source).
However, the claim lacks specificity regarding the frequency of these commissions and the reasons why some presidents may choose not to have their portraits painted. While most recent presidents have adhered to this tradition, the existence of exceptions indicates that the claim is not universally applicable. For instance, some presidents may choose to delay their portrait's commissioning due to personal or political reasons, which complicates the assertion that it is a standard practice for all presidents (source).
The sources used to support this claim are credible, as they come from reputable historical associations and news outlets that cover presidential history and traditions. However, the lack of comprehensive data on all presidents' portrait commissioning practices means that the claim cannot be definitively categorized as true or false.
Conclusion
Verdict: Unverified
The claim that "presidential portraits are often commissioned after a president's term ends" is partially true but lacks comprehensive evidence to support it as a universal practice. While it is a common tradition, there are exceptions, and the specifics can vary by individual president. Therefore, the claim remains unverified due to the nuances involved in the commissioning process.
