Read · October 31, 2026
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb and Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones sue in federal court to block President Trump's 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery, days before construction could begin
Washington, D.C., and Virginia sued in federal court on Saturday to block President Trump's planned triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery, with construction set to begin as soon as next week. The two jurisdictions argue the arch needs approval from Congress that it does not have, and their filing says, "The Court should not allow this cynical gambit to succeed." The administration has said the arch would also have a military use, with drones and snipers. Newsweek and the Washington Examiner put its height at 250 feet.
- From the LeftNBC News: Virginia and D.C. sue to stop proposed Trump arch
NBC reports the suit's legal claims, the Nov. 5 start date and the White House statement.
Grade: B (88/100). Uses loaded words.
- CenterNewsweek: DC, Virginia Sue to Block Trump’s 250-Foot Arch After Judge Questions Plan
Newsweek details the eight counts, the traffic figures and Friday's hearing before Judge Chutkan.
Grade: C (76/100). Mixes in the reporter's opinion.
- From the RightWashington Examiner: DC and Virginia sue to block Trump's Triumphal Arch
The Examiner reports the filing, the other suits against the arch and Hegseth's defense argument.
Grade: B (82/100). Leaves out key context.
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