Scott LoBaido, a Staten Island-based artist and activist, has made headlines by installing a provocative bronze statue in front of New York City Hall. The statue, depicting a hand with its middle finger raised and titled Vaffanculo (Italian for 'f*** you'), was placed there in protest against Mayor Zohran Mamdani. This installation occurred last week, yet there has been no official response from the mayor or local authorities regarding the statue's fate. LoBaido is known for his politically charged art, having previously staged protests against city policies, including a notable incident in January 2025 where he was arrested for holding a middle-finger sign at Columbus Circle. His past protests also include throwing pizzas over the gates of City Hall in response to restrictions on coal and wood-fired ovens. With a focus on the American flag and right-wing icons in his artwork, LoBaido describes himself as a 'freedom fighter' and has created pieces that celebrate figures like US President Donald Trump and late commentator Charlie Kirk.