By Karim Hammam
Washington, D.C., and Virginia filed a lawsuit Saturday in U.S. District Court to block construction of President Donald Trump’s proposed 250-foot triumphal arch, calling the project "flagrantly unlawful." The monument is planned for Memorial Circle on the Potomac River banks, and the administration has indicated it could break ground within a week.
Multiple legal challenges
The attorneys general argue the arch violates multiple laws, citing a lack of congressional authorization and a height nearly double the legal limit for buildings in the capital. They warn that once construction begins, the administration will claim halting it would cause irreparable harm. Separate lawsuits have been filed by Vietnam War veterans, who say the arch would obstruct views of Arlington National Cemetery, and by Arlington County, Virginia. Protests have been held at Memorial Circle over the past year.
Administration cites national security
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth argued in a court filing that the arch serves a dual purpose as a national monument and a military asset for homeland defense, including housing counter-sniper personnel. The administration has also contended that plaintiffs lack standing to sue. Trump has said the arch commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and previously remarked, "Me — it's going to be beautiful."
At 250 feet, the structure would surpass the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the Arc de Triomphe in height. Funding would likely come from both private and public sources, with the National Endowment for the Humanities allocating $15 million. An April Ipsos survey found 52 percent of Americans oppose the arch, while 21 percent favor it. The lawsuit comes days before Election Day, as Republicans face potential losses amid voter frustration over gas prices and the Iran war.
