Opponents seek to block US from starting work on Trump arch in Washington
WASHINGTON: A group of three military veterans and an architectural historian on Friday asked a US judge to block the Trump administration from starting work on a triumphal arch in Washington.
Three military veterans and an architectural historian have filed a lawsuit in a US District Court to halt the Trump administration from beginning work on a 250-foot arch near Arlington National Cemetery. The Interior Department announced plans for the arch, modeled after Paris' Arc de Triomphe, despite legal challenges and without final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission.
Lawyers argue the construction violates federal law and requires congressional approval, disputing the administration's assertion that a 1925 law authorizing a defunct commission provides the necessary support. The government contends the planned work is merely testing for artifacts or cultural materials, which will be restored by October 31.
Opponents claim the arch would disrupt the historic sight line between Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House, while supporters argue it would honor veterans' sacrifices. The project is part of Trump's broader effort to leave architectural marks across Washington, including a new White House ballroom and renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
