Former US President Donald Trump hosted a charity auction for a portrait of Jesus at his Mar-a-Lago estate's New Year's Eve party on December 31, 2025. The artwork, painted by artist Vanessa Horabuena in about 10 minutes during the event, started with a bid of 100,000 USD. Trump announced that all proceeds would benefit St. Jude Hospital and the local police department.

The bidding quickly escalated. "One million USD!" Trump exclaimed, noting that the bidder was "a powerful figure on Wall Street." A subsequent bid of 2 million USD was made, which Trump playfully suggested was "insignificant" for the affluent attendees. He further incentivized bidders by offering to sign the painting if the price went higher.

The price then jumped to 2.5 million USD, prompting Trump to quip, "Is it 5 million USD or 2.5 million USD?" The auction concluded when the winning bidder secured the painting for 2.75 million USD. Trump lightheartedly warned the winner not to bid so high, joking they might have to declare bankruptcy by January 1, before winking and inviting them to the stage.

President Trump at the New Year's Eve party in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, December 31, 2025. Photo: AP

President Trump and First Lady Melania hosted the New Year's celebration, joined by family, friends, and notable guests including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife. When asked about his resolution for 2026, President Trump simply stated, "Peace on Earth," before rejoining the festivities.