In a recent conversation with Lara Trump, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that there is indeed space on Mount Rushmore for an addition of President Donald Trump's likeness.
According to Breitbart, the idea to add President Trump to Mount Rushmore surfaced amidst newly given powers for the assessment of historical monuments and related legislative proposals.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum holds newly endowed responsibilities following an executive order signed by President Trump. This order empowers the Interior Secretary to evaluate the historical accuracy of monuments, memorials, and statues that were removed during Joe Biden’s presidency.
During a discussion about the representation of historical figures in monuments, Lara Trump prompted Burgum with a question about the possibility of adding her father-in-law’s likeness to Mount Rushmore. Burgum confirmed that the monument indeed has the physical capacity to accommodate another presidential figure.
The conversation between Burgum and Lara Trump was not just a theoretical exchange but highlighted ongoing considerations about America’s representations in its national monuments. The dialogue underscored the political and historical significance of such monuments and who is commemorated on them. Burgum’s affirmative response to Lara’s inquiry was simple yet impactful. He stated, "Well, they certainly have room for it there," indicating physical space for an additional sculpture on the monumental site. This comment has sparked various reactions across the political and public spectrums.
Moreover, Doug Burgum also mentioned forthcoming national celebrations, including fireworks on July 4th, to mark the 250th anniversary of America's founding in 2026. These celebrations are anticipated to draw significant attention and add to the discourse surrounding the representation of presidents on national monuments.
The idea of adding former President Trump to Mount Rushmore has been previously considered. In fact, it has been promoted through legislative efforts by several Republican representatives. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, after Trump began his second term, introduced a bill championing Trump's addition to the Rushmore lineup.
Rep. Claudia Tenney also contributed to the legislative efforts by introducing a bill in February that suggests establishing Trump’s birthday on June 14, simultaneously with Flag Day, as a public holiday. This bill details the recognition of Trump’s alleged pivotal role in modern American history.
Tenney emphasized the significance of Trump's presidency, stating, "No modern president has been more pivotal for our country than Donald J. Trump.” She outlined his role in international diplomacy with the Abraham Accords and domestic policy via significant tax reforms, portraying him as a foundational figure in what she terms America's Golden Age.
The proposed bill by Rep. Tenney is geared not only toward celebrating Trump as an individual but also emphasizing the broader symbols of American heritage such as the Flag Day. She argues that “By designating Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day as a federal holiday, we can ensure President Trump’s contributions to American greatness and the importance of the American Flag are forever enshrined into law.”
This legislative move aligns with the larger narrative around national pride and the commemoration of historical figures through holidays and memorials—contexts that shape public memory and historical narratives.
As discussions continue and legislative proposals evolve, the dialogue on how America chooses to recognize its leaders and symbols speaks to both ongoing political divides and the process of constructing national identity. The debate around including Trump on Mount Rushmore will likely incite varied opinions on American leadership and the criteria for monumental inclusion.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, these discussions and legislative movements highlight the continuing evolution of how history is remembered and honored. They also reflect the dynamic nature of public monuments as symbols of national values and historical understanding. The discourse around Mount Rushmore, now potentially including President Donald Trump, taps into the broader conversation about whose contributions are monumental enough to be set in stone. It reflects ongoing debates about national identity, memory, and the criteria for honoring a president in such a lasting manner.
As the nation moves forward, the decisions made today will define the historical landscape for future generations, documenting a national narrative that includes a broad spectrum of voices and opinions. The impactful statement by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, while seemingly simple, may contribute to significant shifts in how American presidential legacies are viewed and commemorated.