Trump's 250ft Washington Arch Approved Despite 99.5% Public Opposition

The US Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) voted on May 21 to approve President Donald Trump's proposed 250ft-tall triumphal arch on Memorial Circle in Washington, DC, bypassing standard review and ignoring public comments that were 99.5% opposed. Chairman Rodney Mims Cook, Jr. moved for final approval, passed by four commissioners; NEA chair Mary Anne Carter left before the vote. Trump rejected a prior CFA recommendation to reduce height to 166ft by removing gold statuary. The design now eliminates an eight-foot platform, gold lions, and a tunnel, relying on traffic lights. Architect Nicolas Charbonneau of Harrison Design said blank wall surfaces will eventually feature narrative sculptures but gave no timeline. Public speakers included representatives from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, DC Preservation League, and Cultural Landscape Foundation, plus residents and veterans. Susan Douglas called it "arch insanity," noting lack of Congressional approval, Trump's admission it's for "him," lawsuits by veterans, structural issues on landfill, and FAA review needed. Gary Langston questioned its purpose as a monument versus memorial. John Ayers quoted the 1902 McMillan Commission. CFA vice chair James McCrery argued the arch frames views. The project next goes to the National Capital Planning Commission on June 4.