The infamous Trump baby blimp will NOT be flying over London during Donald Trump’s upcoming UK state visit starting Tuesday, September 16, 2023. This marks Trump’s third state visit since his first trip in July 2018.
The Blimp’s Protest Legacy
The giant orange balloon, created by Leo Murray and artist Matt Bonner, first soared over Parliament Square in 2018 as a cheeky protest against Trump. It made a splash again during his second visit in June 2019, becoming a symbol of public mockery.
Why the Blimp’s Staying Grounded
Despite rumours, the creators confirmed the blimp won’t appear this time. Murray explained the political mood has shifted. “Back in 2019, Donald Trump was a figure of fun for the British public,” he said. “But now, it’s not really a laughing matter anymore.”
Safety Fears and Ownership
Murray revealed the blimp is no longer theirs—it’s been donated to the Museum of 1. Past protests sparked serious backlash, with some involved receiving death threats and harassment from far-right groups, raising concerns about safety.
Will the Blimp Return?
Though the idea of bringing the balloon out of storage was considered, Murray believes today’s tense political climate makes it too risky. He hinted that personal insults might pack more punch against Trump than giant balloons ever could.
