On a federal holiday meant to honor the presidency and the legacy of George Washington, the administration posted an image of Donald Trump styled like a Time magazine cover with the words: “I was the hunted, and now I’m the hunter.” The caption read, “Happy Presidents’ Day, Mr. President.”

The phrase has become a defining theme of Trump’s second term. He frequently describes his first term as a period when he was “hunted” by critics, prosecutors, and political opponents, and frames his return to office as an opportunity for payback. In interviews, he has openly said this term is “more pleasurable,” contrasting it with what he calls persecution during his first presidency.

That rhetoric has been paired with action. Since launching his comeback campaign, Trump has vowed retribution against those he believes wronged him, declaring in 2023, “I am your warrior. I am your justice… I am your retribution.” His administration has since targeted political rivals and critics, including former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and former National Security Adviser John Bolton. Actions have included investigations, security clearance revocations, dismissals of federal officials, and aggressive moves against members of the press.

Earlier this month, the Justice Department charged former CNN host Don Lemon and others in connection with a protest at a church opposing immigration raids. Lemon has argued the charges are politically motivated, saying, “For them, the process is the punishment.”

The tone of the Presidents’ Day post stood in sharp contrast to the holiday’s origins. The observance began in the 1880s to honor George Washington and later evolved into a broader recognition of American presidents, often associated with Washington and Abraham Lincoln and themes of national unity.

Social media reaction was swift and biting. Users responded with memes, including images linking Trump to Jeffrey Epstein and satirical references to Weekend at Bernie’s. Meanwhile, other government accounts amplified the message, posting images of Trump alongside Washington and Lincoln.

Instead of a celebration of constitutional continuity, the post underscored how differently this administration defines presidential legacy: less about stewardship, more about settling scores....