President Donald Trump said Wednesday that construction on his long-discussed Triumphal Arch is expected to begin within the next two months, positioning the monument as a centerpiece of White House plans for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
The timeline would put the start of construction ahead of July 4, 2026, as the administration accelerates preparations for the semiquincentennial, a sweeping national celebration expected to include events, monuments and programming across the country.
“It hasn’t started yet. It starts sometime in the next two months. It’ll be great. Everyone loves it,” Trump told POLITICO when reached by phone from Mar-a-Lago. “They love the ballroom too. But they love the Triumphal Arch.”
The proposed structure, loosely modeled on European victory monuments, is among several high-profile initiatives Trump has personally championed as part of the anniversary effort. In recent months, the president has displayed a physical model of the arch during public appearances, underscoring his enthusiasm for the project.
Plans previously discussed would place the monument near the Lincoln Memorial, on the opposite end of a bridge leading toward Arlington National Cemetery, though final siting details and approvals have not been publicly finalized.
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Trump has framed the Triumphal Arch as a patriotic landmark intended to honor American history and military service, casting it as a lasting national symbol ahead of the 2026 celebrations. Critics, however, have raised concerns over potential costs, design choices, and whether the executive branch has the authority to move forward unilaterally with major construction projects in Washington, D.C.
The arch is one of several unconventional proposals tied to the anniversary. Trump has also promoted hosting a Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event on White House grounds on June 14.
When asked who might fight at the proposed White House event, Trump said the decision would be left to UFC President Dana White, a longtime ally.
“Well, Dana’s picking them. He’s the best fight picker there is, right?” Trump said. “He’s going to pick all of the top fighters. Going to be all championship matches. It’ll be the best ever, I think. Really incredible.”
Trump suggested the event could feature a full slate of bouts rather than a single fight.
“many matches, like 10,”
In separate remarks to POLITICO last week, Trump discussed the Republican Party’s strategy for the upcoming midterm elections, arguing the race would center on “pricing.” He also portrayed himself as the ultimate decision-maker on any potential peace agreement related to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
As the semiquincentennial approaches, the proposed Triumphal Arch is shaping up to be one of the most visible — and debated — symbols of the administration’s vision for commemorating America’s 250th birthday.
Originally reported by Sophia Cai in Politico.
