Trump administration announces excavation for Great Triumphal Arch without final federal approvals

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced that excavation work for the 250-foot 'Great Triumphal Arch and Military Observation Deck' would begin within two weeks, despite the project lacking final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission and federally mandated reviews for aviation safety and historic preservation. The announcement came as the administration faces an ongoing lawsuit from Vietnam veterans and an architectural historian who argue the arch would desecrate Arlington National Cemetery and requires congressional approval. A federal judge reinforced an existing order requiring 48 hours' notice before any activity on the site. The administration claimed the work does not require approval but 'helps in the process,' while critics called it an attempt to sidestep legal and regulatory processes before the midterm elections.

“helps in the process” — Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, defending the excavation without final approvals, claimed the work 'helps in the process.'