Donald Trump tossing apple into air (© Michael O'Brien/National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian)

Trump portrait takes the spotlight

A week before Donald Trump takes office as the 45th U.S. president, his photo portrait is on display at a Smithsonian Institution museum.
U.S. Capitol during an inauguration (Shutterstock)

Fun facts about past presidential inaugurations

Incoming presidents have celebrated their inaugurations in novel ways, starting with George Washington dancing the minuet after his.
Dog on airplane steps (© AP Images)

The White House: Home to some memorable pets [video]

Pets have always played a role in the White House. Learn more about the cats, dogs — and bears, badgers and hippos — at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Graphic of man with hand raised before Senate committee (State Dept./Doug Thompson)

How does Senate confirmation work?

Before nominees for Cabinet positions can start work, they have one important hurdle to clear: the Senate confirmation process.
Rex Tillerson sitting before microphone, name plate in front of him (© AP Images)

What you didn’t know about Senate confirmations

There’s more to Senate confirmations than just the hearings. Discover some notable moments in U.S. Senate confirmation history.
Close-up of Donald Trump embedded with text over inauguration photo (© AP Images)

Lots of prep work for Trump before Inauguration Day

On January 20, Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 45th president of the United States. Here are some of the items from his presidential to-do list.
President Obama onstage, waving to crowd (© AP Images)

Obama: ‘I leave … more optimistic about this country’

In his farewell speech to the nation, Obama said his faith in America had been strengthened over the past eight years.
George H.W. Bush, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter standing together (© AP Images)

How quickly do presidents make key appointments?

President-elect Donald Trump faces many decisions, but few are so daunting as selecting the men and women who will fill his administration.
President Obama climbing aircraft stairs (© AP Images)

Our favorite Obama travel photos

View some of President Obama's travels to other countries. He met dignitaries and people in all walks of life and saw treasured spots.