Rep. Don Beyer opposes proposed military arch near Arlington National Cemetery

Representative Don Beyer (D-VA) has criticized a proposal by Donald Trump to construct a 250-foot-tall “triumphal arch” at Memorial Circle, located between Memorial Bridge and Arlington National Cemetery.

Trump has suggested the structure serve as a military complex to house and deploy drones and snipers. Beyer has labeled the plan “stupid, dangerous, and unworkable,” noting that a drone-launching site would be positioned in the landing path for Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). He further argued that storing sniper ammunition near major commuter thoroughfares and the Metro Blue Line poses a significant public safety risk.

Beyer recently visited the site following constituent reports of heavy machinery. While workers on-site claimed to be conducting archaeological soil evaluations, Beyer expressed concern that the presence of surveyors and equipment indicates the administration is preparing to bypass legal requirements and proceed with construction despite ongoing court orders and a lack of adequate impact studies regarding air traffic, vehicular safety, and historic preservation.