President Donald J. Trump Honored Among America’s Greatest Leaders in Historic Art Project
In a stirring tribute to one of the most impactful leaders in modern American history, a new statue of President Donald J. Trump has been proudly unveiled in Rapid City, South Dakota. The statue is the latest addition to the beloved “City of Presidents” project—an ongoing, privately funded initiative celebrating the legacies of every U.S. president through life-size bronze sculptures.
A Bold Tribute to a Bold President
The sculpture, crafted by South Dakota native Jim Maher, captures President Trump mid-speech, with one hand raised in a commanding gesture familiar to millions of Americans. Maher admits the piece sparked debate. “Some said it would end my career. Others said it’s the most meaningful thing I’ve ever done. In truth, I believe it honors a man who reshaped the presidency with bold leadership and unapologetic patriotism.”
The statue was commissioned following the end of Trump’s first term and completed prior to his historic 2024 re-election. Now, it stands as a lasting symbol of Trump’s “America First” presidency—a legacy still unfolding.
LOOK:
Downtown #RapidCity got a little more #MAGA today. 45/47 #Trump statue to be placed on President's Row. @realDonaldTrump 🇱🇷🇱🇷🇱🇷 pic.twitter.com/VAYhplX9Sm
— DeplorableHill_1776 (@Hill_1776) May 3, 2025
A Centerpiece of Patriotic Tourism
Trump’s statue joins the ranks of leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan, and George W. Bush in downtown Rapid City, where tourists walk a trail celebrating America’s enduring presidential legacy. The City of Presidents, founded in 2000, has become a top destination for travelers who value American heritage, leadership, and freedom.
According to Visit Rapid City, the project reflects the full diversity of America’s presidential history, from the founding fathers to modern-day icons of conservative leadership.
Leaders Attend Historic Unveiling
Despite a small presence of anti-Trump protestors, the unveiling drew local leaders and Trump supporters, including Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun, Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Richard Purdue, whose father helped launch the project 25 years ago.
Ally Formanek, interim CEO of Visit Rapid City, emphasized: “The Trump statue supports our mission—honoring every U.S. president and preserving the stories that shaped our nation.”
Maher added, “Trump’s second administration already feels different—less talk, more action. His role in American history will be studied for generations.”
What’s Next for the Project?
The Trump statue will remain at the Rapid City Visitor Center throughout the summer, giving travelers a chance to view it up close before it’s placed outdoors alongside other presidents. A statue of former President Joe Biden has also been commissioned, continuing the project’s mission of inclusive presidential recognition.
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This powerful tribute is more than a sculpture—it’s a reminder that patriotism, leadership, and strength are timeless American values.