I Can't Picture Barack Obama Spending His Post-Presidency Painting Portraits

Today marks President Obama's last official day in office. At this time tomorrow, he will be an ex-President.


Somehow I can't picture Barack Obama spending his post-presidency pursuing quiet pursuits such as painting portraits as George W. Bush has done. Aside from his painting and a handful of public appearances including during brother Jeb's ill-fated White House bid, the 43rd President has largely kept out of the limelight and was not critical of his successor during his two terms in office.


This will surely not be the case with Obama. He loves the spotlight too much to give it up. He loves the sound of his voice too much to go silent. Nor will he resist the temptation to criticize Donald Trump (even if some of his criticisms will probably be justifiable).


Naturally, Obama does have a large audience with whom he will resonate for the rest of his life (which could be a good 35 to 40 years). But there will also be a large segment of America who wishes he would just go away. Beginning tomorrow this segment of America now won't mind it so much if he plays a round of golf after an ISIS beheading. The golf course is where Barack Obama will do the least amount of harm to America's national security.