Story perspectives

Activists Erect Mini Arch, Permit Denied Over Trump Plan

5/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Activists built a 17-foot mock arch on the National Mall to illustrate President Donald Trump’s proposed 250-foot arch near the Lincoln Memorial.
After the Commission of Fine Arts approved the arch’s design, the National Park Service denied a protest permit, citing a construction permit.
Organizers said the arch would block the sightline between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery and should wait until a president’s legacy is clear.

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Story summary

Activists built a 17-foot mock arch on the National Mall to illustrate President Donald Trump’s proposed 250-foot arch near the Lincoln Memorial.
After the Commission of Fine Arts approved the arch’s design, the National Park Service denied a protest permit, citing a construction permit.
Organizers said the arch would block the sightline between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery and should wait until a president’s legacy is clear.