Kennedy Family Opposes Trump’s Proposed Arch Near Arlington Cemetery

Several Kennedy family members are challenging President Trump’s plans to build a large triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. Nine relatives of Robert F. Kennedy and Ted Kennedy argue that the proposed 250-foot arch would obstruct views of their family gravesites and the ‘Eternal Flame’ honoring President John F. Kennedy.

The three Kennedy brothers—Robert F. Kennedy, Ted Kennedy, and John F. Kennedy—are interred at Arlington. The family expresses that the arch will ‘permanently cast a shadow over the graves of servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country, including the Kennedy gravesites.’

The family seeks to join a lawsuit from Washington, D.C., and Virginia opposing the arch. Vietnam War veterans are also suing the Trump administration over the project.

“Americans from every corner of the country visit Arlington to honor those who served and sacrificed for our nation,” Rory Kennedy and Maxwell Kennedy stated about the lawsuit. “A towering arch would also cast a shadow over our democratic principles,” they added.

The planned arch, meant for a traffic circle near the Lincoln Memorial, is among several construction projects Trump has endorsed. His administration says it would commemorate 250 years of American independence. Despite plans to begin construction imminently, the project faces strong opposition from local officials, congressional Democrats, veterans, and Arlington Cemetery’s advocates.

Critics contend the Trump administration bypassed necessary legal protocols to approve the arch. They warn it could impede views between the cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. The National Capital Planning Commission, dominated by Trump allies, recently approved the plans, but U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan has suspended construction activities for 14 days, citing potential legal issues. Plaintiffs have requested a longer injunction.

Government officials argue the arch doesn’t breach legal standards and maintain that the plaintiffs lack standing to challenge it. White House spokesman Davis Ingle expressed confidence in their legal standing and anticipation for the arch’s completion, calling it ‘a tribute to 250 years of American greatness.’

CBS News reached out to the Justice Department regarding the Kennedy family’s stance. The Kennedys have previously criticized Trump’s architectural changes in D.C., opposing efforts to add his name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Relatives Kerry Kennedy and Joe Kennedy III have joined the lawsuit concerning the triumphal arch.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated earlier that he was not involved in the proposed name change for the arts center, choosing to focus on other issues instead.