Virginia and D.C. Seek Court Order to Halt Trump Administration's Proposed Memorial Circle Arch

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones and District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb filed a lawsuit in federal court Saturday requesting an immediate injunction against the construction of a triumphal arch planned for Memorial Circle in Washington. The suit argues that the project would cause "immediate and irreparable harm" to both jurisdictions, disrupt traffic, and require substantial resources to mitigate impacts.

The attorneys general contend that the arch violates the Commemorative Works Act, the Height of Buildings Act, the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. They assert that the project proceeds without specific congressional authorization and exceeds the 130-foot height limit established for Washington structures.

In a statement, Jones said Virginia has a “solemn duty” to protect the dignity of Arlington National Cemetery and that the state will “vigorously litigate” to preserve the area. Schwalb added that the construction would cause “serious, immediate, and irreparable harm” to the District and its residents.

The White House, represented by spokesperson David Ingle, described the arch as a future “iconic landmark” that will serve as a gateway to Arlington National Cemetery and honor veterans. Ingle declined to comment on the lawsuit when asked.

The National Capital Planning Commission, whose members were appointed by President Donald Trump, approved initial plans for the arch earlier this year and is scheduled to vote on final plans on Nov. 5. Renderings released in April show the design includes winged eagles, a figure of Lady Liberty and a line from the Pledge of Allegiance. President Trump has also suggested the structure could have a national security function, though those features are not reflected in the submitted plans.