Veterans Challenge Trump Administration Over Proposed 'Arc de Trump' Monument in D.C.
A Vietnam veteran named Shaun Byrnes, along with two other veterans, is taking legal action against the Trump administration over a proposed triumphal arch to commemorate America's 250th birthday. Byrnes and his colleagues believe that the arch, which would be taller than most buildings in D.C., would be disrespectful and obstruct historic sightlines between Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. President Trump has been pushing for various projects in the nation's capital to reshape it according to his vision, including resurfacing the National Mall's reflecting pool, renovating the public golf course, and proposing a "Garden of Heroes" with 250 sculptures. These projects have faced criticism for lack of public input, Congressional authorization, and the use of no-bid contracts. The cost of these projects has exceeded $100 million and is expected to reach nearly $1 billion, with funds diverted from national parks. The Department of the Interior supports these projects as a way to enhance national pride and love of country. The Commission of Fine Arts, now composed entirely of Trump appointees, has approved projects like the White House ballroom without typical public input, leading to concerns about the commission being a rubber stamp for the President's agenda. Despite opposition, the arch project in D.C. has received approval from the commission and could move forward as early as September. Critics like Byrnes argue that this arch, dubbed the "Arc de Trump," is an attempt to create a monument to the President while he is still in office.