The Controversy Around Including Donald Trump on Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, a colossal sculpture carved into the rock face of Mount Rushmore in Sudbury, South Dakota, has been a symbol of American leadership and history for over eight decades. Since its completion in 1941, the monument has featured just four presidents on its faces: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, andAbraham Lincoln. But what about the current political figure at the center of endless debate: Donald Trump?

Should Donald Trump be Added to Mount Rushmore?

Two camps have formed around the idea of including Donald Trump on Mount Rushmore – one supporting the idea and the other fiercely opposing it. Supporters argue that Trump’s presidency deserves recognition, while opponents claim that such an addition would be a desecration of the monument's honor and historical integrity.

Some supporters of including Trump point to his presidency as a significant period in American history, where he made substantial changes and had a significant impact on the country. Opponents, however, emphasize the villainous actions of the former president and argue that his crimes, including corruption, fraud, and obstruction of justice, make him unworthy of a place on this national memorial. They suggest even worse consequences including acts of violence or harm towards him. This polarizing debate demonstrates the complex and multifaceted nature of political history in the United States.

The Official Stance of the National Park Service

The official stance of the National Park Service (NPS) on the matter is clear and unambiguous. Since 1989, the National Park Service has collaborated with engineering experts to ensure the long-term structural stability of the Mount Rushmore sculpture. In a statement, it was made explicit that no additional presidents will be added to the monument due to several reasons. These include the specific structural limitations of the rock formations and the potential risks of carving new faces into the existing statue.

McGee-Ballinger, a representative of the National Park Service, emphasized in a press release that 'RESPEC supports our long-held belief that no other rock near the sculpted faces is suitable for additional carving.' This position is backed by a thorough study conducted by experts like RESPEC, who explained that adding more faces could compromise the stability and safety of the existing monument.

Political Context and Historical Significance

The political context of Donald Trump's presidency adds another layer of complexity to the discussion. Public opinion polls consistently show that more voters cast votes against Trump than for him. Even his recent efforts to alter his public image and rebrand himself through luxury items and collectibles have not changed this perception. This lack of a mandate or significant electoral victory further solidifies the stance that he is not deserving of a place on the monument honoring the foundational figures of American democracy.

Furthermore, the consistent scrutiny and criticism faced by the former president indicates a deeper divide within the political spectrum. His policies, actions, and the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding him highlight the need for transparency and accountability, which are values that the monument is meant to promote. The monument serves as a reminder of the principles on which the United States was founded and as a symbol of unity and shared history, rather than a platform for controversial or divisive figures.

Alternative Scenarios

For those who argue that the front side of Mount Rushmore is already full and propose adding a new president to the back, it is important to recognize the practical challenges and the sensitivity required in such a scenario. The potential for deterioration in weather conditions, the risk of erosion, and the need for extensive restoration work make such an addition a highly controversial and problematic idea.

Moreover, the personal and historical details of health and comfort should also be considered. The weather and environmental conditions in the Black Hills of South Dakota can be harsh, especially in the winter months. Providing any form of protection or shelter for an addition to the monument would be a significant undertaking and potentially compromise the cleanliness and aesthetics of the existing sculpture.

Conclusion

At the heart of the debate over Donald Trump's inclusion on Mount Rushmore lies a fundamental question of historical judgment and preservation. The symbolic and practical challenges associated with adding a new figure to the monument underscore the importance of maintaining its original purpose and integrity. Given the unresolved controversies and the official stance of the National Park Service, it seems unlikely that Donald Trump will join the other presidential faces on Mount Rushmore. This decision serves as a lasting reminder of the democratic principles that underpin the United States and the responsibility of future generations to honor and protect its legacy.