What happens when a gift no longer fits the recipient?
That’s the argument French politician Raphaël Glucksmann is making as he calls for the return of the Statue of Liberty.
Speaking at a political convention, Glucksmann didn’t hold back.
“We gave the U.S. the Statue of Liberty to celebrate freedom and democracy,” he declared to roaring applause.
“If they no longer believe in those values, maybe it’s time to bring her home.”
His frustration? America’s shifting stance under President Donald Trump, from supporting authoritarian leaders to gutting funding for scientific research.
Is He Serious Or Just A Stunt?
“If they want to fire their best scientists, we’ll welcome them here in France,” he added.
The iconic statue, gifted by France in 1886, was meant to symbolize shared ideals of liberty.
But with Trump slashing research budgets and backing global strongmen, Glucksmann argues that America isn’t living up to its end of the deal.
While Paris already has a miniature Lady Liberty along the Seine, he seems to think the original would look better back home.
A bold statement? Absolutely.
But in an era of political turbulence, maybe it’s time to ask—does the Statue of Liberty still belong where it stands?
