The plaintiffs also argue that the arch, which is expected to stand exactly 250 feet tall, would obstruct the line of sight between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
Three Vietnam War veterans have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s proposed triumphal arch in the District of Columbia’s Memorial Circle.
According to The Hill, the lawsuit was filed on behalf of the three veterans and an architectural historian. Together, they claim that the so-called “Independence Arch” requires congressional approval to be built. Trump’s demands that the arch be constructed before July 4, 2026—the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—violates the president’s duty to “take care that the laws are faithfully executed and is ultra vires.”
The plaintiffs also argue that the arch, which is expected to stand exactly 250 feet tall, would obstruct the line of sight between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
Arlington National Cemetery occupies the former grounds of the Lee family’s estate. It was used as a military burial ground, in part, to deter the family of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from returning to their home after the Civil War.
“That sightline was carefully selected to symbolize the unification of the country after the Civil War and the strength of a united nation,” attorneys from Public Citizen wrote in the lawsuit. “But with the erection of this Trump vanity project, Arlington House will no longer be visible from the Lincoln Memorial, and the view of the Lincoln Memorial from Arlington House will be obscured, disrupting the historic and symbolic link between the two.”
The lawsuit also claims that the Commemorative Works Act of 1986 requires the government “to preserve the integrity of the comprehensive design” of Washington, D.C.
The Hill notes that Trump first floated the idea for a triumphal arch during a donor dinner. He first proposed a temporary construction before settling on a more permanent design.
Trump’s proposal seems, at least in part, inspired by jealousy of other countries’ monuments.
“There are 57 cities throughout the world that have them,” Trump said of large arches. “We’re the only major cities, Washington, D.C., that doesn’t […] So we have an unbelievable arc that I think will be the most beautiful in the world being built there. It’s going to be built there.”
The administration has defended its proposal from critics by claiming that the erection of a large arch would enhance the appeal of the surrounding sites.
“It will enhance the visitor experience at Arlington National Cemetery for veterans, the families of the fallen, and all Americans alike, serving as a visual reminder of the noble sacrifices borne by so many American heroes throughout our 250 year history so we can enjoy our freedoms today,” White House spokesperson David Ingle said in a statement.
Sources
Vietnam War veterans sue to block construction of Trump’s triumphal arch
Vietnam War veterans sue over Trump’s proposed triumphal arch
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