Full Breakdown
New Statue of Trump and Epstein Sparks Controversy on National Mall
3/13/2026, 7:24:19 AM
Statue Installation and Description
On March 10, 2026, a gold-painted statue titled "King of the World" depicting President Donald Trump and the late financier Jeffrey Epstein was unveiled on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The nearly 12-foot-tall installation mimics a famous scene from the 1997 film "Titanic," where Jack and Rose stand at the ship's bow. In this version, Trump stands behind Epstein, holding his arms outstretched, while both face the Washington Monument. The statue is part of a series of satirical artworks created by an anonymous artist collective known as The Secret Handshake, which aims to draw attention to the controversial relationship between the two men.
Accompanying the statue is a plaque that reads: “The tragic love story between Jack and Rose was built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches. This monument honors the bond between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, a friendship seemingly built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches.” Additionally, ten banners featuring photographs of Trump and Epstein, along with the slogan “Make America Safe Again,” were displayed nearby, with the word “Justice” redacted from the Department of Justice logo.
Background and Context
The Secret Handshake has previously installed similar artworks, including a statue titled "Best Friends Forever," which depicted Trump and Epstein holding hands, and a giant replica of a controversial birthday card allegedly sent by Trump to Epstein in 2003. These installations have emerged amid renewed scrutiny of Trump’s ties to Epstein, particularly following the release of previously withheld documents detailing abuse allegations against Trump.
Public Reaction
The statue has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Many visitors to the National Mall engaged with the artwork, taking photographs and expressing amusement. Some described the piece as a humorous commentary on political issues, while others criticized it as distasteful. Local resident Donna Powell remarked that the statue serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions surrounding the Epstein files, stating, “This brings the files back to the forefront. A lot can be said with art.” Conversely, some visitors expressed discomfort, with one parent noting that the statue was inappropriate for children.
Official Statements and Responses
The White House condemned the statue, with Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson suggesting it reflected political double standards. She questioned why similar sculptures of Democrats, who had ties to Epstein, had not been created. Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein, asserting he was “totally exonerated” by the release of documents related to the investigation.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the statue argue that it trivializes serious allegations against Trump and Epstein. Some have called the artwork a partisan stunt that distracts from more pressing political issues. The Secret Handshake, however, maintains that their installations are intended to provoke thought and discussion about the implications of Trump's past associations.
What's Next
The statue is permitted to remain on the National Mall until March 13, 2026. The ongoing conversation surrounding the Epstein files and Trump's connections to the disgraced financier is expected to continue, particularly as more documents are released and public interest remains high. The Secret Handshake has indicated that they may continue to create similar works to keep these discussions alive in the public sphere.
