A controversial new statue on the National Mall is creating a stir among tourists and locals in Washington, D.C.
The nearly 12-foot sculpture depicts President Donald Trump and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein recreating the iconic pose from the movie “Titanic,” with their arms stretched outward. The gold-painted statue, titled “King of the World,” appeared earlier this week and quickly attracted crowds of people stopping to take photos and discuss its message.
“I think it’s comical, I think it’s kind of funny that we’ve got this piece of art here that is sending a very strong message right in front of the Capitol,” said resident Vy Dong. “I think it’s even more hilarious that there are people gathered around.”
Some visitors believe that the message is a relevant one that sheds awareness on the Epstein Files.
“The media picks it up, and then people can talk about it and maybe it’ll make its way to Congress,” said resident Mihika Gokarn.
The installation was created by an anonymous artist collective called “The Secret Handshake,” a group known for placing satirical political art in public spaces around Washington. The collective has previously installed other attention-grabbing pieces, including a giant replica of a birthday card Trump once sent to Epstein.
According to the plaque, the statue is meant to spark public discussion about the past relationship between Trump and Epstein and broader questions about power and accountability.
Park officials say the statue has a temporary permit to remain on the National Mall until Friday night. In the meantime, it continues to draw curious onlookers and spark conversation among visitors in the nation’s capital.
