Trump Places Replica of Toppled Columbus Statue Near White House

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Former President Donald Trump has placed a replica of a Christopher Columbus statue near the White House, marking the latest move by his administration to honor the controversial explorer. The statue is a copy of one that was thrown into Baltimore's harbor in 2020 during nationwide demonstrations against institutional racism. Trump has dismissed the ideological shift on Columbus as 'left-wing arsonists' bending history and twisting Americans' collective memory.

Why it matters

The placement of the Columbus statue replica near the White House is the latest chapter in the ongoing debate over how to remember the Italian explorer, who is seen by some as a symbol of Western colonization and the exploitation of indigenous populations, while others view him as a pioneering historical figure.

The details

The marble statue was crafted by sculptor Will Hemsley and is owned by the Italian American Organizations United, which agreed to loan it to the federal government for placement at or near the White House. The original monument was pulled down by demonstrators on July 4, 2020, and hurled into Baltimore's Inner Harbor as fury erupted following George Floyd's death in police custody. Demonstrators argue the Italian explorer bore responsibility for the genocide and exploitation of indigenous populations in the Americas.

• The statue was installed on the grounds of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next to the White House in March 2026.
• The original Columbus statue was pulled down by demonstrators on July 4, 2020.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The placement of the Columbus statue replica near the White House is likely to continue the ongoing debate over how to remember the Italian explorer and his legacy.