A United States federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s proposed triumphal arch in Washington, delaying construction for 14 days.
District Judge Tanya Chutkan issued the restraining order on Thursday. The decision came hours after a federal planning commission approved the controversial project.
The National Capital Planning Commission had voted 8-4 in favour of the arch. However, the judge stopped the administration from beginning construction while the court considers legal challenges.
The proposed monument would stand 250 feet (76 metres) tall. Its location is near Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial.
Veterans, officials challenge Trump’s project
The ruling followed lawsuits filed by several veterans and the attorneys general of Washington, DC, and Virginia.
They asked the court to prevent construction over concerns about the project’s legality and location.
Critics argue that Congress has not authorised the proposed monument. They also question the administration’s claims about its military purpose.
The project has attracted strong opposition from veterans and other groups. More than 100 people reportedly spoke against it during the planning commission’s public hearing.
The four commissioners who opposed approval also raised concerns. They questioned the project’s legal basis and lack of congressional funding.
Trump administration defends construction plans
The Trump administration has argued that Congress authorised a monument at the proposed site more than a century ago.
However, critics say the original plan involved two large columns. Those columns were intended to represent the North and South during the American Civil War.
The proposed arch is significantly different from that original design.
The administration had planned to begin construction immediately after receiving approval. The judge’s order has now delayed those plans.
Democrats warn against proceeding with project
Democratic Congressman Jared Huffman criticised the proposal during the commission’s hearing.
“This arch would dishonor America, our ideals and our laws,” he said.
Huffman also warned contractors and officials about potential legal consequences. He urged them to consider the risks of participating in the project.
He further referred to the Democrats’ victory in the November 2026 midterm elections. The party is set to take control of Congress in January.
The triumphal arch is among several major projects Trump has proposed for Washington. Others include a White House ballroom and renovations to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
The president has also faced legal challenges over plans to redevelop East Potomac Golf Links.
For now, the court’s temporary order prevents construction from starting. The wider legal dispute over the monument remains unresolved.
