Trump hints at plan for massive triumphal arch in Washington DC

United States President Donald Trump has once again spoken about his long-discussed idea of building a triumphal arch in Washington DC. While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he wants the monument to be the “biggest one of all,” saying it should reflect America’s status as the most powerful nation in the world.

According to Trump, many famous cities across the globe already have triumphal arches, but Washington DC does not. He described the US capital as the “only major city” without such a structure and said this gap should finally be filled. His comments have renewed debate around the project, which he has linked to the country’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations.

Why Trump wants a triumphal arch

Trump said that the idea of building a triumphal arch in Washington is not new. “For 200 years, they wanted to build an arch,” he told reporters. He claimed that despite repeated discussions over the years, no administration had taken concrete steps to make it happen.

He pointed out that nearly 57 cities around the world have triumphal arches, including Paris, Rome, and other historic capitals. In his view, it is surprising that Washington DC, the seat of US power and history, lacks such a landmark. Trump said the arch would symbolise America’s strength, achievements, and long history.

The President stressed that the United States deserves a monument that matches its global standing. Calling the country “the biggest and most powerful nation,” he said the arch should reflect that status. At the same time, Trump clarified that the structure would not overshadow existing national symbols.

During his interaction with reporters, Trump said the arch would not be taller than the White House. He explained that while he could have made it much larger, he chose not to out of respect for the White House and its importance. According to him, the goal is to create something grand but balanced.

Trump also praised the proposed design, saying it would be a “really beautiful building” created by some of the best architects in the world. He added that the government plans to set up a special committee to oversee the project and ensure it meets high standards.

Plans, design, and timeline

Trump has earlier hinted that the triumphal arch could be part of the national celebrations marking 250 years of American independence. The milestone will be observed on July 4, 2026, and the administration has been discussing several projects and events to commemorate the occasion.

Reports suggest that Trump has already shown renderings of the proposed arch in the Oval Office over the past few months. These early designs indicate that the structure would be loosely inspired by the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris. However, Trump has said it would have its own unique American identity.

The proposed location for the arch is across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial. If built there, it would become a prominent feature in the capital’s landscape and likely attract tourists from around the world. Supporters believe it could become another iconic symbol of Washington DC.

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Earlier in January, Trump was asked when construction on the arch would begin. At that time, he said the work had not yet started but could begin within the next two months. This suggests that planning is still ongoing and that several approvals may still be required.

In a phone interview from his Palm Beach estate, Trump told Politico that he believes the public will strongly support the project. “It’ll be great. Everyone loves it,” he said. He compared it to other projects he has promoted, adding that people would grow to love the triumphal arch as well.

However, the idea has also raised questions. Critics have wondered about the cost of such a monument, its impact on the city’s historic character, and whether public money should be used for the project. Trump has not yet shared detailed financial plans or addressed these concerns directly.

Despite the debate, Trump appears confident that the arch will move forward. By repeatedly mentioning it in public statements, he has signalled that the project is important to him and his vision for America’s future.

As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, the proposed triumphal arch could become a major talking point. Whether it is celebrated as a bold national symbol or criticised as unnecessary remains to be seen. For now, Trump’s latest comments have once again placed the idea firmly in the public spotlight.