This is a spot on comment Optics “they really are leaving” think ART OF WAR (looking weak when you are strong) If there is a plan (there is) this would fit perfectly. Preservation is a massive part of this too! War of 1812 the whitehouse was sacked. The presidents wife saved a lot of portraits including the one of George Washington. She had whitehouse workers help load up these priceless pieces and because of her they still exists to this day. The president was Madison (thanks anon)

This is a spot on comment

Optics “they really are leaving” think ART OF WAR (looking weak when you are strong) If there is a plan (there is) this would fit perfectly.

Preservation is a massive part of this too!

War of 1812 the whitehouse was sacked. The presidents wife saved a lot of portraits including the one of George Washington. She had whitehouse workers help load up these priceless pieces and because of her they still exists to this day. I think it was Monroe if I remember correctly