Kennedy family sues to block Trump arch at Arlington

Legal challenge blocks work

Nine members of the Kennedy political dynasty sued the Trump administration to halt building a towering gilded arch. A federal judge issued a temporary order preventing any construction work from starting until November 19. The plaintiffs argue the structure would obstruct clear sightlines between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House. They claim the design fundamentally alters the experience of visiting their family memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Arch design and claims

The proposed Independence Arch stands 76 metres tall and is modelled after Paris Arc de Triomphe. Trump claims the site will become a top-grade military complex with drone storage and sniper facilities on the roof. The family complaint states the arch would permanently diminish memorials for President John F Kennedy and Senator Edward M Kennedy. Rory Kennedy and Maxwell Kennedy stated the project casts shadows over graves of their father, mother and uncles.

Congressional approval dispute

The lawsuit argues the National Park Service authorized construction without required congressional approval to protect sacred national memorials. The Democracy Defenders Fund represents the family members pursuing several legal challenges against the administration. Democrats gained control of Congress which may lead to greater scrutiny of these Washington projects soon. The arch location on Memorial Circle was designed to represent national reunification after the Civil War.