Doug Burgum predicts Trump statue in Venezuela, president’s quick comeback steals the show

WASHINGTON, DC: A serious policy discussion took an unexpectedly funny turn when Interior Secretary Doug Burgum suggested that President Donald Trump could one day have a statue erected in Venezuela.

The remark, made during a Cabinet-style discussion held on Thursday, March 26, after Burgum’s recent visit to the country, prompted laughter, especially after Trump jumped in with a perfectly timed punchline that quickly became the highlight of the exchange.

Doug Burgum's bold claim gets Trump excited

Speaking about his visit, Burgum sounded almost convinced that Trump’s reception in Venezuela was more than just positive.

“Well, back in Venezuela, where Chris and I both had a chance there, I literally think they're going to put up a statue to President Trump. And it’s not a political statement,” he said.

Trump, sitting nearby, immediately responded with a grin: “It’s a great honor.”

But Burgum wasn’t done. Doubling down, he compared Trump to a historic figure, saying Venezuelans viewed him “like Simon Bolivar,” the iconic liberator of South America.

"He’s the liberator of a country," Burgum added, painting a dramatic picture of how Trump is perceived.

He went on to describe what he called an emotional atmosphere during the visit, pointing out that locals were welcoming and enthusiastic.

He also highlighted growing cooperation, mentioning rising oil production and economic recovery efforts as signs of change. 

Just as Burgum continued outlining economic gains and policy details, Trump cut through the seriousness with a perfectly timed interruption.

“Forget that. When are they going to do the statue?” he asked.

The room burst into laughter.

Trump jokes about Venezuela presidential run

The humor didn’t stop there. In a separate moment, Trump took the joke even further, floating the idea of entering Venezuelan politics himself.

“After the presidency, I may go to Venezuela and run against Delcy. I may run against Delcy. They like me in Venezuela,” he said, referring to interim leader Delcy Rodriguez.

That remark, too, drew laughter from everyone present in the room.

Trump’s remarks come as broader discussions continue around Venezuela’s political transition and ongoing US legal action against Nicolas Maduro. 

The former Venezuelan leader and his wife appeared in court again on Thursday.

During the Cabinet meeting, Trump said additional charges could still be brought forward against Maduro.