Trump’s victory arch is estimated to cost a huge sum. It is going to be a whopping $100 million. This monumental project, which is set to be completed in time for the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, will likely become one of his most talked-about legacies, whether people love it or hate it.
At an October dinner with business leaders, Trump was all in on the idea of a grand arch. “It’s going to be really beautiful,” he promised. “I think it’s going to be fantastic.” He even went a step further when pressed about who the monument is meant to honour himself.
What is the arch about?
Trump’s proposed arch is not your average national memorial. Small models of the structure released to the press show a striking resemblance to France’s Arc de Triomphe, which was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in the early 19th century.
The arch would be placed in Memorial Circle, a prominent spot across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial, an area already teeming with national monuments. If built, it would stand as a bold new addition to the skyline, likely towering over its historic neighbours.
The models feature statues of eagles and a winged woman perched atop the arch, lending the project a kind of imperial grandeur.
What is raising even more questions is the uncertainty surrounding the approval process. Traditionally, new monuments in Washington require congressional approval, but sources suggest that Trump may bypass this step. The arch is slated for completion by July 2026, which would mean a rush to make it happen in time for the 250th anniversary.
If Trump moves forward without official approval, it could set a precedent for sidestepping the usual checks and balances when it comes to monument-building. Whether Congress or the public will stand for it remains to be seen.
It is not just monuments in Washington that are seeing dramatic changes. Since Trump’s return to the White House in January, there have been some major changes when it comes to monuments and infrastructure, including the makeover of the White House. Trump has overseen the demolition of the East Wing, making way for a massive ballroom.
Other changes include the controversial paving over of the Rose Garden, the installation of towering flagpoles on the lawn, and a series of gilded accents added to the Oval Office. This has left many Americans scratching their heads and not everyone is thrilled about the rapid-fire alterations.
‘Waste, fraud, and abuse’
Netizens also posted their opinion on the decision. A user noted, “Waste, fraud, and abuse.” Another added, “3 more years of this garbage. ” “The Arc de Triomphe took 30 years to build, and this flour-bagged sized clementine wants to do it by July 4th 2026. Sure. That’ll be built well,” claimed a user.
“Anything but helping people with food and shelter,” added another. ” “Come on … at least make it an original design instead of just combining elements 2 o 3 other similar monuments from Europe,” stated a user.