### Trump Proposes 'Arc de Trump' to Commemorate America's 250th Anniversary President Donald Trump has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a monumental arch near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., inspired by the iconic Arc de Triomphe in Paris. This proposed structure, dubbed the "Arc de Trump," aims to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. The arch is intended to stand at the Washington end of the Memorial Bridge, which connects Arlington, Virginia, to the nation's capital. The project is estimated to cost around $250 million and is part of a broader initiative to enhance the White House and its surroundings, including renovations to the Executive Mansion itself [https://fortune.com/2025/10/17/trump-paris-style-arch-lincoln-memorial-washington-dc][https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3329396/trump-unveils-plans-washington-monument-some-have-dubbed-arc-de-trump]. ### Structure of the Proposal and Its Implications 1. **Project Overview**: - The arch will be located on federal land west of the Lincoln Memorial, serving as a grand entrance to the National Mall. - It is designed to be a neoclassical structure, featuring a gilded statue of Lady Liberty atop the arch [https://apnews.com/article/trump-arch-lincoln-memorial-bridge-washington-ca88586c68a6301f87146a8ca2091b33]. 2. **Funding and Support**: - The project was announced during a White House dinner aimed at wealthy donors who have pledged financial support for the construction [https://www.forbes.com/sites/saradorn/2025/10/16/trump-confirms-plans-for-massive-independence-arch-near-lincoln-memorial]. - Trump has emphasized the arch's aesthetic appeal, stating, "It's going to be really beautiful" [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-new-arch-resembling-arc-de-triomphe]. 3. **Cultural and Political Context**: - The proposal has sparked mixed reactions, with some critics dubbing it the "Arc de Trump," suggesting a personal branding effort by the president [https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/news/trump-dc-arch-model-anniversary-b2846812.html?ap=1]. - The arch is part of a larger renovation project that includes updates to the White House, such as a new ballroom and enhanced landscaping [https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/oct/16/donald-trump-washington-arch]. ### Supporting Evidence and Public Reaction - **Public Sentiment**: The announcement has generated significant media coverage and public discourse, with social media users quickly adopting the nickname "Arc de Trump" [https://www.tag24.com/politics/politicians/donald-trump/trump-shows-off-his-massive-arc-de-trump-construction-plans-3429802]. - **Financial Commitment**: The estimated cost of $250 million reflects a substantial investment in a project that aims to leave a lasting legacy in the nation's capital [https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/us/donald-trump-unveils-plans-for-arc-de-trump-a-massive-monument-in-washington-dc-101760635831806.html]. - **Design Features**: The arch is expected to feature neoclassical elements, including eagles and a prominent statue, aligning with traditional American architectural styles [https://www.wusf.org/2025-10-16/president-trump-envisions-d-c-arch-to-mark-250th-anniversary-of-u-s]. ### Conclusion: A Monumental Vision for America In summary, **Trump's proposal for the 'Arc de Trump' represents a significant and controversial addition to Washington, D.C.'s landscape**. The project aims to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States while also serving as a personal legacy for the president. 1. **Project Announcement**: Trump revealed the plans during a donor event, highlighting the arch's grandeur and significance [https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/arc-de-trump-prez-plans-paris-style-monument-in-dc-as-his-next-big-build]. 2. **Funding and Support**: The project is backed by wealthy donors, indicating a strong financial commitment to its realization [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-new-arch-resembling-arc-de-triomphe]. 3. **Cultural Impact**: The arch has already sparked debate and discussion, reflecting the polarized nature of Trump's presidency and his approach to public monuments [https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/news/trump-dc-arch-model-anniversary-b2846812.html?ap=1]. As the project moves forward, it will undoubtedly continue to attract attention and scrutiny from both supporters and critics alike.