Epstein-rump statue returns to the Mall

Author: Melissa Kim, Sophie Rosenthal, Laura Wainman
Published: 3:12 PM EDT October 2, 2025
Updated: 7:58 PM EDT October 2, 2025


WASHINGTON — A statue that grabbed the attention of Washingtonians and tourists alike was back on full display on the National Mall Thursday, after being removed one week ago.

Members of the "Secret Handshake" said they retrieved the statue, which had been broken, on Sept. 25 and spent hours putting it back together ...

Colloquially referred to as the "Trump-Epstein friendship statue," the installation depicted the president, Donald Trump, and the late disgraced financier and sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein, holding hands and skipping. The creators of the project, who are part of the group "Secret Handshake," said it was removed from the Mall on Sept. 24 by U.S. Park Police and the National Park Service, one day after it had gone up. The original permit said it was allowed to remain on the Mall until 8 p.m. Sept. 28; however, it included a clause that the permit could be revoked at any time as long as the permittee was notified of the reason at least 24 hours in advance ...

https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/trump-epstein-friendship-statue-back-national-mall/65-835f2613-1b56-47d1-b05a-facc64218d94