Trump Wants to Make His Triumphal Arch a Killing Machine

President Donald Trump has unveiled plans to transform his proposed 250-foot arch in Washington, DC, into a "top grade military complex" capable of housing a significant arsenal of weaponry, according to his recent post on Truth Social. The arch, which would stand 250 feet tall and tower over other DC landmarks, is intended to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. Trump claims that the military has requested the arch as a rapid-response facility for drones and snipers on both the roof and plaza areas.

The project, which has faced criticism and legal challenges, first gained traction last October. Three Vietnam War veterans have filed a lawsuit against the administration, citing concerns about the arch's impact on the view from Arlington National Cemetery and the lack of congressional approval. A federal judge recently ordered the administration to provide 48 hours' notice before carrying out any work on the project, but has yet to rule on the case's merits.

Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) dismissed Trump's plan as "obviously idiotic," alleging that Trump anticipates losing the lawsuit and seeks to argue that the arch serves a national security purpose. The inclusion of drone launching sites and sniper positions has been deemed a "stupid, dangerous, and unworkable" idea, particularly considering the drone's landing path intersects with the path for Dulles Airport.

Trump's proposal deviates significantly from the initial design, which included a gilded statue of Lady Liberty and a biblical inscription. The administration's use of the "national security" argument echoes his past justifications for controversial actions, such as the unpermitted White House ballroom and the removal of transgender individuals from public life.