Portrait unveiling makes CNN panelists long for Obamas — instead of this 'white knuckle existence’ under Trump

The official portraits for former President Barack and Michelle Obama were unveiled at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Monday. With the unveiling came tuned ears listening desperately for hidden messages in the speeches made.

"I was listening very carefully to see if there was any subtle message that the former first lady would make there," CNN host John Berman. "I did pick up on one sentence and really one sentence only. She said, 'as we sit here today, we have a lot more work to do.' She was saying, I wonder if in the context of what we're seeing in Washington today she was trying to send a message there."

"I don't know, John. I think even if Hillary Clinton were president today, I think she might have the same observation," political commentator Brian Fallon said. "Because I think the Obamas throughout the eight years of the historic presidency were always well aware that as huge and historic a step as Barack Obama's election represented, the country still has a ways to go with tackling the problem of institutional racism."

Fallon went on to explain that it's refreshing to see the Obamas as a reminder of America's better angels.

"It is a reminder we don't need to live like this," he continued. "Don't need to be part of this white knuckled existence where we wake up to some new headache. and it is a reminder that we can have a president and first lady we as a country regardless of party are proud of and carry themselves with grace and dignity and a sense of purpose. They have kept a low profile because they're not trying -- they're trying to abide by the president of letting the next person do the job. But I think some of the commentary there is unspoken with just the way they present themselves."

Watch the commentary below: