Trump & Epstein Statue at US Capitol: ‘King of the World’ Controversy

Washington D.C. – A provocative sculpture depicting former U.S. President Donald Trump and the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in a pose reminiscent of the iconic film *Titanic* has been installed near the U.S. Capitol Building. The artwork, titled “King of the World,” has quickly drawn attention and sparked debate, becoming a focal point for both supporters and detractors.

The sculpture, unveiled on Tuesday, recreates the famous scene from James Cameron’s 1997 blockbuster where protagonists Jack and Rose embrace on the bow of the ship. In this iteration, figures representing Trump and Epstein are intertwined, a deliberate artistic choice intended to highlight their past relationship, which has been the subject of intense public scrutiny. The installation is the latest in a series of politically charged art pieces placed in the National Mall by an anonymous collective known as Secret Handshake.

The artwork’s base features a plaque referencing the film and drawing parallels between the fictional romance and the connection between Trump and Epstein. It reads, “The tragic love story between Jack and Rose developed amidst luxurious voyages, wild parties, and secret nude sketches… This monument honors the bond between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, a friendship seemingly built on luxurious voyages, wild parties, and secret nude sketches.” Accompanying the sculpture are banners displaying a photograph of Trump and Epstein alongside the slogan “Make America Safe Again.”

The History of Trump and Epstein’s Association

The relationship between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein dates back decades. Public records show that Trump and Epstein first met in the early 1990s, and their association continued for years. As reported by the New York Times in September 2025, the extent of their interactions has been a subject of ongoing investigation and public interest, particularly following Epstein’s arrest and subsequent death in 2019.

Epstein was arrested in July 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking of minors in Florida and New York. He died by suicide while in jail awaiting trial. His case brought renewed attention to his connections with numerous high-profile individuals, including Trump. While Trump has repeatedly stated that he had limited contact with Epstein, photographs and documented interactions suggest a more extensive relationship. The sculpture serves as a visual representation of this controversial association, prompting renewed discussion about the nature of their connection.

Secret Handshake: The Artists Behind the Provocation

The group responsible for the installation, Secret Handshake, has become known for its provocative and often controversial public art installations. According to Yahoo News, the collective remains anonymous, operating with the intention of sparking dialogue and challenging the status quo. They previously installed a sculpture depicting Trump and Epstein shaking hands near the Capitol, which was later removed. Other works by Secret Handshake include a statue of excrement criticizing those involved in the January 6th Capitol attack and a replica of a purported birthday card sent by Trump to Epstein.

The group’s installations are designed to be temporary and often generate significant media attention and public debate. Their anonymity adds to the intrigue surrounding their perform, allowing the art itself to take center stage. Secret Handshake’s stated goal is to use art as a form of political commentary, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and question established power structures.

Public Reaction and Official Response

The installation of “King of the World” has elicited a wide range of reactions from the public. Tourists have been observed taking photographs with the sculpture, while others have expressed outrage and condemnation. Social media platforms have been flooded with images and commentary, reflecting the divisive nature of the artwork. The sculpture has become a talking point in political circles, with some criticizing it as disrespectful and others defending it as a legitimate form of artistic expression.

As of March 11, 2026, authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the sculpture’s presence on the National Mall. Libertad Digital reports that the Capitol authorities have yet to comment on how long the statue will be permitted to remain in place. Given Secret Handshake’s previous installations, the sculpture will be removed in the coming days or weeks. However, its impact on the ongoing conversation surrounding Trump and Epstein is already being felt.

The Significance of the *Titanic* Reference

The choice of the *Titanic* as a thematic reference is particularly pointed. The film is a cultural touchstone, representing both romance and tragedy. By recreating the iconic scene with Trump and Epstein, the artists are suggesting a parallel between the doomed voyage of the ship and the alleged moral failings of the two men. The phrase “King of the World,” uttered by Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Jack Dawson in the film, takes on a cynical tone when applied to Trump and Epstein, implying a sense of arrogance and entitlement.

The sculpture’s use of a well-known cinematic image amplifies its message, making it instantly recognizable and relatable to a broad audience. The *Titanic* reference also evokes themes of class, power, and the illusion of invincibility, all of which are relevant to the context of the Trump-Epstein relationship.

The installation of “King of the World” is a stark reminder of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Donald Trump and his associates. It serves as a visual protest, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and consider the implications of power and privilege. As the sculpture remains on display, We see likely to continue to generate debate and fuel the ongoing conversation about accountability and justice.

The next development to watch will be any official statement from the Capitol authorities regarding the sculpture’s future. The public’s reaction and the potential for further artistic interventions by Secret Handshake will also be key factors in shaping the narrative surrounding this provocative artwork. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and engage in respectful discussion in the comments section below.