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1h ago

Satirical Trump–Epstein Statue Reinstalled on National Mall After Park Service Removal

The reinstallation followed emails from the Park Service confirming a First Amendment demonstration permit.

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People take photos of a protest art representing President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein on the National Mall near the U.S. Capitol, on Oct. 2, 2025.
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A statue on the National Mall, depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, top right, holding hands is seen at sundown on the National Mall Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Overview

  • The Secret Handshake collective reinstalled the 12-foot piece Thursday on 3rd Street north of the U.S. Capitol after sharing NPS emails that referenced an approved demonstration permit.
  • U.S. Park Police removed the statue on Sept. 24 for permit noncompliance, with officials citing a height discrepancy relative to allowable dimensions.
  • The artists say the work was damaged during the takedown, including a cracked head, and that it was repaired before returning to the Mall.
  • A plaque on the installation reproduces a birthday message reported to be from Trump to Epstein, which Trump denies authoring and has litigated over.
  • The White House dismissed the installation in a statement, while the government shutdown limited agency responses as renewed attention falls on efforts to release Epstein-related records.