Staff Reports
A recent demand by French politician Raphaël Glucksmann that the United States return the Statue of Liberty has sparked international debate and, frankly, a wave of incredulity. Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament from the leftist Place Publique party, argued during a rally that America no longer embodies the values represented by the iconic monument. Claiming that some Americans have “chosen to side with tyrants,” he suggested the statue would be better off in France, where it originated as a gift nearly 140 years ago. While his remarks drew applause from his supporters, they were swiftly dismissed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded with characteristic bluntness when questioned about the matter by Fox News reporter Peter Doocy. Her response was unequivocal: “Absolutely not.” Leavitt reminded Glucksmann—and by extension, the world—that France owes a debt of gratitude to the United States for its role in liberating Europe during World War II. She pointedly remarked that without American intervention, French citizens might be speaking German today. Her comments served as a firm rebuttal to Glucksmann’s critique and highlighted the enduring cultural and historical significance of Lady Liberty as an American symbol.
The Statue of Liberty, originally gifted by France in 1884 to celebrate American independence and shared ideals of liberty, has stood in New York Harbor as a beacon of freedom and democracy for generations. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel, it represents not only Franco-American friendship but also universal values like equality and opportunity. Conservatives have seized on this controversy as an opportunity to reaffirm America’s commitment to these principles—arguing that critiques like Glucksmann’s reflect political posturing rather than genuine concern for liberty.
Glucksmann’s comments also reflect broader European unease over U.S. foreign policy under President Trump, particularly his efforts to mediate between Russia and Ukraine. However, conservatives argue that such criticisms are misplaced. They contend that Trump’s policies prioritize American interests while maintaining global stability—a far cry from aligning with tyranny, as Glucksmann suggested. The demand to return Lady Liberty has been widely ridiculed as symbolic grandstanding with no legal or practical basis, given that the statue is firmly owned by the United States and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ultimately, this episode underscores the complexities of international relations in an era of shifting alliances and ideological divides. For Americans, however, Lady Liberty remains an unshakable symbol of national pride and resilience. As Leavitt made clear during her press briefing, no amount of rhetoric from foreign politicians will change that fact. The Statue of Liberty stands tall not only as a monument to freedom but also as a testament to America’s enduring role on the world stage—a role that conservatives believe must be defended against both external criticism and internal doubt.
