Propaganda War on the National Mall

A unique battle of images is taking place on the National Mall between the Trump administration and its detractors. The president’s likeness is prominently displayed on federal buildings, while satirical statues and posters challenge his image nearby.

Administration's Displays

Giant banners featuring President Trump’s face have been hung from several federal buildings, including the Department of Justice, Department of Labor, and Department of Agriculture. The president’s name also now appears on the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the United States Institute of Peace.

Satirical Counterattacks

An anonymous group known as the Secret Handshake has erected satirical statues and artworks. These pieces address topics ranging from President Trump’s relationship with the late Jeffrey Epstein to his preference for opulent designs like marble and gold leaf. Another group, the Save America Movement, has plastered posters around Washington, D.C., criticizing members of Trump’s Cabinet.

Save America Movement's Posters

Posters from the Save America Movement, a nonprofit organization, target specific administration officials. One poster depicts White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller with the caption, “Fascism Ain’t Pretty.” Another features Attorney General Pam Bondi and reads, “Epstein Queen.”

Statue of Trump and Epstein

In February, a satirical statue depicting President Trump and Jeffrey Epstein drew large crowds and significant social media attention. The statue, referencing a scene from the film Titanic, portrays Trump holding Epstein’s outstretched arms.

“A Throne Fit For a King”

On March 31st, the Secret Handshake installed a gold-painted, faux-marble toilet sculpture titled “A Throne Fit For a King” near the Lincoln Memorial. This artwork mocks President Trump’s renovation of a White House bathroom during a government shutdown.

Reactions and Perspectives

Mary Corcoran, who leads the Save America Movement, stated, “We think that ridicule is a really important tool in an opposition toolbox to fight authoritarianism.” Visitors have expressed varied reactions to the displays.

Some, like Andi Lynn Helmy, a high school senior from Jacksonville, Florida, found the satirical statue disrespectful, stating, “It’s a gross interpretation of our president… I think it’s just an incredibly disrespectful thing.” Others, such as Luke Price, a freshman at the University of Vermont, likened the administration’s banners to imagery seen in authoritarian states like China under Mao Tse-Tung and the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin. He commented, “I just feel like he’s sort of painting himself as the king of America.”

White House Response

The White House defended the president’s use of federal buildings, with spokesman Davis Ingle stating via email, “President Trump is focused on saving our country — not garnering recognition.” Ingle also added, “A variety of organizations are free to share their opinions publicly, even when they lack any basis in reality.”