President Donald Trump's ambitious plan to erect a monumental triumphal arch, inspired by Paris's iconic Arc de Triomphe and promising to celebrate America’s '250 years of greatness, freedom, and posterity,' has been given the go-ahead by an all-Trump-appointed panel.

The proposed 250-foot-tall structure, aimed at Memorial Circle in Arlington, Virginia, adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery, has faced significant opposition. Critics cite concerns over its location, height, scale, and design, fearing it would overshadow the solemnity of the cemetery where hundreds of funeral services are held monthly.

Despite these reservations, the Commission of Fine Arts approved the project with some caveats. The panel initially suggested removing decorative elements such as golden eagles and a winged angel to make the monument less imposing. However, these features remain integral to the design.

The appointment of all seven members of the Commission by Trump between January 2026 and February 2026 has raised eyebrows. This follows the firing of the previous group in October 2025, just before a review of another controversial project – the White House ballroom.