The controversial billboard comparing Donald Trump to Fidel Castro, located on Palmetto Avenue in Miami, is set to be removed early Saturday morning, according to Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar.
"I was just informed by the Vice President and General Manager of Lamar Advertising for South Florida that the billboard featuring the image of dictator Fidel Castro will be taken down at midnight," Salazar announced via her account on the social media platform X.
Public Outrage and Reactions
The image of Trump alongside the late Cuban dictator Fidel Castro has sparked significant controversy on social media and in Miami's public sphere. Responding to these reactions, the creator of the image, Claude Taylor, leader of an anti-Trump Political Action Committee (PAC), stated on X: "Hate our billboard? Guess what? This country is still free," addressing Trump supporters who have demanded its removal.
The contentious billboard was erected in Miami amid the campaign for the 2024 U.S. presidential elections. Located on the Palmetto Expressway at 67th Avenue, it was funded by Mad Dog PAC and features an image of the former President Trump beside the late Cuban leader Castro, with the message "No to dictators, no to Trump."
Origins and Future Actions
The PAC was founded by Democrat Taylor, a former White House staffer during the Bill Clinton administration. Recently, Taylor announced that a truck displaying images of Fidel Castro, Nicolás Maduro, Hugo Chávez, and Donald Trump is en route to Miami, further fueling the controversy in the city. The truck will also play a video showing Castro giving a speech, overlaid with Trump's voice discussing shark attacks and electric boats, a clear mockery of both former leaders.
Understanding the Controversy: Trump vs. Castro Billboard
In light of the recent uproar over the billboard comparing Trump to Castro, here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the situation.
Why is the billboard comparing Trump to Castro being removed?
The billboard is being removed due to significant public outcry and controversy. The decision to take it down was communicated by Lamar Advertising to Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar.
Who is responsible for the controversial billboard?
The billboard was commissioned by Mad Dog PAC, led by Claude Taylor, a Democrat and former White House staffer during the Bill Clinton administration.
What message does the billboard convey?
The billboard features an image of Donald Trump alongside Fidel Castro with the message "No to dictators, no to Trump," suggesting a comparison between the two figures.
What additional actions has Claude Taylor announced?
Claude Taylor has announced that a truck displaying images of Fidel Castro, Nicolás Maduro, Hugo Chávez, and Donald Trump is headed to Miami. The truck will also play a video that mocks both Castro and Trump.