News

Satirical Statue in D.C. Sparks Debate Over President Trump’s Relations to Epstein

Adonys Rubio-Mesa, Staff Writer

October 6, 2025

Image taken from The Washington Post and edited in Canva

The relationship and past interactions between former President Donald Trump and the late financier Jeffrey Epstein have been the focus of renewed attention in recent months. From resurfaced documents and news reports, including a detailed CNN timeline of their association, to a mysterious new statue appearing in Washington, D.C., public curiosity about their connection continues to grow.

For those unfamiliar with the controversies, Jeffrey Epstein was a wealthy financier who became infamous for his involvement in sex trafficking and the abuse of minors. He was convicted in 2008 and faced new charges in 2019, but died in jail before trial. Over the years, Epstein was connected with several high-profile figures, including Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, and Prince Andrew. Trump has publicly acknowledged knowing Epstein in the past but has denied any involvement in his criminal actions.

Recently, a statue depicting Trump and Epstein appeared on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The installation, created by an anonymous art group known as The Secret Handshake Project, seems to celebrate “friendship month.” The statue portrays Trump and Epstein holding hands, with a plaque between them that reads:

“We celebrate the long-lasting bond between President Donald J. Trump and his ‘closest friend,’ Jeffrey Epstein.”

Below the main plaque are two smaller ones, each featuring quotes attributed to the men. Trump’s plaque reads, “Yes, there is. But I won’t tell you what it is. We have certain things in common, Jeffrey. Enigmas never age. Have you noticed that? A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday—and may every day be another wonderful secret.”

Epstein’s plaque replies: “Nor will I, since I also know what it is. Yes. We do, come to think of it. As a matter of fact, it was clear to me the last time I saw you.”

Both quotes seem to convey a sense of friendship and mystery, and together they create a tone that is both satirical and unsettling. Whether meant as a critique of political power or a commentary on hidden relationships, the statue’s ambiguity has only fueled public speculation.

The Secret Handshake Project claims the statue is part of a larger series of protest artworks, including one titled “Dictator Approved”, which showed the head of the Statue of Liberty cracked by a golden thumbs-up. That earlier piece was reportedly removed and destroyed—only to later reappear, just as this one did. As of October 6th, the Trump–Epstein statue reappeared in mint condition at the same location after its initial disappearance.

Regardless of where one stands on the message, the installation has reignited discussion about power, friendship, and the blurred line between public image and private reality.

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About the Contributor

Adonys Rubio-Mesa, Staff Writer

Adonys Rubio-Mesa is a senior at Fremont High School, and this is his first year on The Tiger’s Eye staff. He was born in Puerto Rico and lived there for about eight years before moving to the United States. In his free time, Adonys enjoys playing electric guitar, mainly focusing on alternative metal songs. He also has a strong passion for photography and writing, and he plans to take most of the photos for this year’s yearbook. After graduation, Adonys is leaning toward attending Wayne State College but is still considering other options. He hopes to major in psychology and pursue a career as a teen therapist.

Outside of academics, Adonys enjoys playing video games whenever he can. Some of his favorite series include God of War, Devil May Cry, and Outlast. While he doesn’t currently have a pet, he imagines he would choose a snake if he ever did. Adonys is the middle child of four siblings, though he currently lives with his two younger siblings, who attend middle school in Fremont. Another one of his hobbies is reading classical literature, with favorites like Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë and The Wings by Yi Sang. He says these works give him a unique sense of depth and intelligence when he reads them.