Trump’s Triumphal Arch Wins Approval From Key Committee

Opponents argued the arch would overshadow Arlington National Cemetery and alter historic sightlines between the cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. Preservation groups and several veterans organizations have also filed lawsuits attempting to stop construction.

“The arch, as proposed, would dominate the National Cemetery and would be inconsistent with its solemn and hallowed character,” National Trust for Historic Preservation attorney Elizabeth Merritt told commissioners.

Still, Trump administration officials and project designers moved aggressively forward with the plan. Architect Nicolas Charbonneau told commissioners that several earlier design features had already been removed or simplified, including an underground pedestrian tunnel and additional decorative elements.

The president, however, refused to compromise on the overall scale of the structure.

“The president considered the commission’s suggestion to look at the arch without the sculptural figures on the roof but elected not to pursue such an option,” Charbonneau told the panel.