Virginia and D.C. sue over Trump's arch, adding to mounting legal challenges

October 31, 2026 / 1:42 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Virginia and D.C. sue over Trump's arch, adding to mounting legal challenges

TL;DR

  • D.C. and Virginia have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration's proposed memorial arch.
  • The lawsuits aim to halt construction, which could begin as early as next week.
  • Plaintiffs argue the arch will cause irreparable harm, including traffic disruptions, pollution, and impacts on emergency services.
  • The proposed arch would be 250 feet tall, taller than the Statue of Liberty.
  • A federal judge is considering a request to stop the project while a separate lawsuit is resolved.
  • The administration plans to seek final approval and potentially begin construction despite pending lawsuits.