Leavitt had some very strong words for France.
In a firm response on Monday, the White House shut down a call from a French lawmaker to return the Statue of Liberty to France, making it clear that America has no intention of giving up its iconic symbol of freedom.
“Absolutely not,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared when asked about the suggestion during a press briefing.
Leavitt went even further, delivering a sharp historical reminder:
“My recommendation to the unknown French politician is to remember that it is only because of the USA that the France are not talking in German right now. They need to be extremely thankful to our nation.”
Why Did a French Politician Demand Lady Liberty Back?
The surprising demand came from Raphaël Glucksmann, a left-wing member of the French Parliament. During a speech, he criticized the U.S., claiming it no longer represents the values that originally inspired France to gift the statue.
“Give us back the Statue of Liberty,” Glucksmann declared at a political convention.
His comments were seen as a direct attack on U.S. policies, including President Trump’s leadership, America’s stance on global affairs, and its recent moves regarding Ukraine.
Glucksmann accused the U.S. of abandoning its founding principles and even suggested that fired American researchers should move to France instead.
The Statue of Liberty: A Symbol of America’s Strength
The Statue of Liberty, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, was a gift from France to the United States in 1886. It was meant to celebrate the shared values of liberty and democracy between the two nations.
However, despite its French origins, Lady Liberty has become an enduring symbol of American strength, independence, and patriotism.
At the base of the statue, Emma Lazarus’s famous poem, The New Colossus, is engraved.
This message of freedom and opportunity is one that America has upheld for over a century—and it’s not something France has any claim to take back.
Does France Forget America’s Sacrifices?
While some European politicians may try to lecture the U.S., it’s worth remembering:
- Without American intervention in World War II, France would not be a free nation today.
- The U.S. has long defended democracy worldwide, often at great cost.
- America’s values are deeply rooted in its Constitution and history—not dictated by foreign politicians.
It’s ironic that a French lawmaker would question the legacy of American freedom, considering France’s own history of political turmoil.
America’s Response: “Not Happening”
Despite Glucksmann’s complaints, the White House made it clear that the Statue of Liberty is staying exactly where it belongs—in New York Harbor, standing tall as a beacon of American exceptionalism.
What Do You Think?
Should France even be making such demands?