Debating Trump’s Addition to Mount Rushmore

In Keystone, South Dakota, discussions about Donald Trump’s presence at Mount Rushmore have emerged. Though buildings and battleships have been named after Trump, Mount Rushmore remains an unfulfilled aspiration. Trump’s visit to the monument coincided with the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. Despite weather challenges, Trump spoke beneath the iconic granite images of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Teddy Roosevelt.

Trump has expressed interest in being the fifth face on Mount Rushmore. During his first term, then-Rep. Kristi Noem revealed his “dream” to her. Noem, South Dakota governor, even gifted Trump a model of Mount Rushmore with his likeness in 2020. Despite inquiries from Trump aides, actual addition seems improbable. Geologists and historians have repeatedly stated the mountain’s limitations.

The sculpture, crafted between 1927 and 1941, faced challenges. Lead sculptor Gutzon Borglum acknowledged the stone restrictions. Sen. Mike Rounds confirmed previous considerations for Ronald Reagan and echoed geologists’ concerns about limited rock.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna introduced a bill last year to add Trump’s likeness, but it didn’t progress. Alternatives, such as nominating Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize, have been pursued. South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden expressed openness to additional faces, mentioning Trump and Reagan as potential candidates.

Throughout Trump’s second term, discussions on his legacy have intensified. Disagreements between supporters and detractors remain. Notably, a lottery-selected attendee at the Independence Day event viewed Trump as deserving of a Mount Rushmore presence.

George Washington and Abraham Lincoln impersonators at the site preferred preserving Mount Rushmore as is. Both noted the risks of altering the monument. They emphasized the importance of its current depiction of leadership.