US panel approves Trump's design for massive arch in DC

The US Commission of Fine Arts has approved President Donald Trump’s design for a 76-metre-high arch in Washington, DC. This decision marks a significant step forward for the proposed monument, which aims to be a prominent feature in the national capital, situated between the Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle described the approval as a step towards fulfilling Trump's campaign promise to "Make America Safe and Beautiful Again."

However, the arch has faced criticism, particularly for its potential to obscure views of the national cemetery. Public Citizen Litigation Group is representing Vietnam War veterans in a lawsuit against the construction, arguing that congressional approval is necessary. Additionally, James McCrery II, vice chair of the Commission, expressed concerns about the design elements, suggesting the removal of the winged statue and lions, which he noted are not native to North America.

The arch is intended to be a monumental addition to Washington, DC, significantly larger than the Lincoln Memorial and resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The phrases "One Nation Under God" and "Liberty and Justice for All" are planned to be inscribed in gold lettering on the monument. Despite the commission's approval, about 75% of public comments on the project have been opposed, primarily due to its size.

This approval reflects Trump's ongoing efforts to reshape the physical landscape of Washington, DC, alongside other controversial projects, including renovations to the Kennedy Center and the construction of a new ballroom at the White House, which are also facing legal challenges.

Power Read: The approval of the arch design grants Trump leverage in shaping his legacy and physical presence in the capital, despite significant public opposition and legal hurdles. The criticism and lawsuits highlight the tensions between Trump's vision and public sentiment, exposing vulnerabilities in his administration's approach to major projects. As the arch's final approval awaits, Trump's ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining the project's fate and his broader influence on national monuments.

What to watch: The upcoming vote on the final approval of the arch design by the Commission of Fine Arts will be pivotal in determining the project's future.