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3w ago

Trump–Epstein Protest Statue Reinstalled on National Mall With New Permit

Artists cite a Sept. 30 permit for the repaired work, with the federal shutdown limiting Park Service response.

The Dome of the US Capitol Building is visible behind a statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands, placed on the National Mall on Thursday, in Washington, DC. T
The Secret Handshake said federal officers broke the statue while removing it, which violated a permit with the DOI.
Image
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.

Overview

  • The Secret Handshake reinstalled the 12-foot bronze‑painted figures on Thursday near 3rd Street by the Capitol and retitled the piece “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”
  • Interior officials previously said the Sept. 24 removal was for permit noncompliance, while the artists blame a base‑measurement error and say visible damage from the takedown remains.
  • A location manager for the group shared National Park Service emails confirming a First Amendment demonstration permit, and the artists said they intend the display to be temporary.
  • White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson dismissed the installation and repeated that Trump barred Epstein from his club, pointing to document releases touted by the administration.
  • The return comes as disputes continue over releasing Epstein‑related records, including House GOP moves that thwarted a procedural step sought by Democrats to force a vote on a disclosure bill.