
Wed Dec 24 01:50:00 UTC 2025: ## White House Christmas Portrait Sparks Photoshop Accusations
Washington D.C. – A newly released Christmas portrait featuring former President Donald Trump and his wife Melania has ignited a flurry of speculation online, with many accusing the White House of digitally altering the image.
The portrait, intended to showcase a united front for the holiday season, arrived after a previous photo featuring only Donald Trump prompted questions about Melania’s absence. While the new image depicts the couple dressed elegantly and holding hands, eagle-eyed observers claim a closer look at Trump’s right hand suggests it may have been retouched.
Social media users, including X (formerly Twitter) account PatriotTakes, pointed to the possibility of erasing bruising visible in recent public appearances, with PatriotTakes tweeting: “The White House appears to have touched up Trump’s hand for their official Trump and Melania Christmas portrait.” The post has garnered significant attention and sparked debate.
While some X users ran with the theory, commenting on the supposed manipulation, others focused on the couple’s expressions. Many remarked on the lack of smiles and generally somber demeanor in the photo. “They must not have the facial muscles that make a smile,” one user commented. “Brooding faces for the Holidays, yay!” Another questioned, “Do they purposely look unhappy???”
The controversy comes after Trump previously claimed credit for bringing “Merry Christmas” back to the White House, despite no documented policy change to a more inclusive “Happy Holidays.” The White House continues to share holiday greetings, including a photo of Trump standing alone by a Christmas tree with the caption: “We’re saying MERRY CHRISTMAS again!” @POTUS.
The White House has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the alleged photo editing. The latest Christmas portrait has, however, ensured that the Trump’s holiday season continues to be a topic of national discussion.