A controversial statue titled “Best Friends Forever”, depicting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands and frolicking, has been reinstalled on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., after being removed earlier this month. Initially placed by an anonymous activist collective known as The Secret Handshake, the sculpture satirically surfaces the long-scrutinized relationship between Trump and the now-deceased financier.
Its first installation on September 23 drew swift removal by U.S. Park Police, who cited noncompliance with permit rules. During the removal, the work suffered damage: the two figures’ clasped hands were broken, and parts were reportedly severed. In response, the artist group repaired the statue and successfully resubmitted a permit, enabling its return under a “Freedom of Speech” filing amid limited enforcement capacity tied to the ongoing federal shutdown.
The reappearance has reignited public and political debate over Trump’s past ties to Epstein, especially as recent congressional releases have included materials such as a purported 2003 “birthday note” Trump allegedly sent Epstein claims the White House has denied. While the sculpture is provocative, its backers argue it raises important issues of transparency, free expression, and accountability in how public art space is regulated.
As of now, the statue remains standing, drawing tourists, critics, and media attention alike. Whether it will remain unchallenged or again face removal remains uncertain.
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