Story perspectives

Controversial Trump-Epstein Statue Reappears on National Mall

10/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

A statue depicting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein resurfaced on the National Mall on October 2 after removal by the National Park Service a week earlier.
The Secret Handshake, an anonymous group, created the statue to spark discussion about Trump's ties to Epstein.
The National Park Service says removal was for permit non-compliance. Organizers say they received no prior notice.

History

Historical Context

The Statue of Liberty, inaugurated in 1886, symbolizes Franco-American friendship and ideals of freedom. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, it was funded by France and cost around $250,000. The recent resurfacing of a statue depicting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein highlights ongoing debates about public monuments, accountability, and the evolving role of art in political discourse, reflecting historical controversies surrounding leadership and morality.

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Story summary

A statue depicting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein resurfaced on the National Mall on October 2 after removal by the National Park Service a week earlier.
The Secret Handshake, an anonymous group, created the statue to spark discussion about Trump's ties to Epstein.
The National Park Service says removal was for permit non-compliance. Organizers say they received no prior notice.

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