Kennedy Relatives Have Joined The Lawsuit Against Trump's Arch

11.11.2026, 16:02

Construction is currently on hold.

Nine members of the Kennedy family have joined the legal battle against the construction of a giant triumphal arch that U.S. President Donald Trump plans to erect in Washington. The relatives claim that the 76-meter-tall structure will block the view of their family’s graves at Arlington National Cemetery and cast a shadow over the memorials, including the Eternal Flame at the burial site of former President John F. Kennedy, according to TIME (translation by Charter97.org).

Nine relatives have filed a motion to join two existing lawsuits against the project. Among them are the children and grandchildren of Senators Robert and Edward Kennedy. The family is represented by attorneys from the Democracy Defenders Fund.

“This case is about protecting sacred sites that belong to the American people,” stated Rory Kennedy and Maxwell Kennedy, speaking on behalf of the family.

According to them, the arch will not only encroach on the burial sites of their relatives but also disrupt the historic vista between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. This architectural ensemble symbolizes the nation’s reunification after the Civil War.

The relatives also dispute the legality of the construction. They claim that the Trump administration obtained approval for the project without the necessary consultation with Congress and exceeded its authority.

“A giant arch casting a shadow over the graves of our parents and uncles will also cast a shadow over democratic principles,” the family’s statement reads.

Earlier, a federal judge had already barred the administration from beginning construction for 14 days while legal challenges to the project are being considered.

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