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Trump Rings In 2026 at Mar-a-Lago With $2.75 Million Jesus Painting Auction and 'Peace on Earth' Pledge

The gala underscored how Trump blends social theater with policy messaging.

Overview

  • Artist Vanessa Horabuena speed-painted a portrait of Jesus that Trump auctioned for $2.75 million, with proceeds split between St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a local sheriff’s office.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended after earlier meetings at Mar-a-Lago on the Gaza ceasefire, highlighting the event’s diplomatic overtones.
  • Trump stated his New Year’s resolution as “Peace on Earth” and later steered conversation to domestic priorities, bypassing some foreign policy questions from reporters.
  • He touted tariff revenues and investment growth from the stage, as same-day social media posts announced plans to withdraw National Guard units from Los Angeles, Chicago and Portland.
  • The black-tie tradition drew Trump family members and allies including Rudy Giuliani, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, Hussain Sajwani and Jeanine Pirro, with tickets reported around $1,450.