Kennedy family sues to block Trump’s proposed Arlington arch

The Kennedy family has filed a lawsuit seeking to stop President Donald Trump’s plan to build a 250‑ft (76 m) triumphal arch at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery.

Nine members of the Kennedy dynasty argue the structure would obstruct the view of John F. Kennedy’s grave and the graves of thousands of veterans, damaging historically significant sightlines.

The suit was lodged as part of a joint action brought by the states of Virginia and Washington DC. It follows a US District Judge Tanya Chutkan’s order for a 14‑day pause on construction after a National Capital Planning Commission approved the project.

The White House described the litigation as “unfortunate” and said the arch is intended to honor the heroes buried at Arlington. A White House spokesperson said the administration will continue to argue for the monument.

The complaint also claims the National Park Service and Interior Department authorised the build on 5 November 2026 without required congressional approval. The arch, dubbed the “Arc de Trump,” is part of Trump’s broader effort to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Source: BBC News. Photo: Troy Tumbin / Pexels.