A senior House Republican has expressed opposition to using government funds for President Donald Trump’s proposed arch near Arlington National Cemetery. Idaho Representative Mike Simpson, an influential member of the House Appropriations Committee, has publicly disagreed with the administration’s plan to divert Pentagon dollars toward the arch. This marks a rare instance of dissent from a prominent Republican on one of Trump’s high-profile Washington projects.
Simpson stated that he would not support allocating military funding for the arch, citing shortages in current military needs. He asserted, “There’s a lot of things that we need the military funding for—in fact, we’re short on military funding right now.” Further pressed on whether the Defense Department should fund the project, Simpson strongly responded, “If it was my choice, I wouldn’t put any of that money into the arch.”
GOP Pushback Emerges
Simpson’s remarks are notable, given his direct role in federal spending decisions. Republicans have mostly supported Trump’s ambitious construction endeavor. The proposed monument aims to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, akin to significant arches in cities like Paris and Rome. Trump has characterized the project as larger and more magnificent than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Simpson emphasized that if appropriated money is used, Congress should approve it. He said, “I hope if they decide to do it, that they would come to Congress and ask for an appropriation for it if they’re going to use appropriated dollars to do it.” This sentiment aligns with opposition from veterans’ groups and congressional Democrats concerning the project’s authorization and funding source.
White House Defends Project
The White House has defended the initiative, declaring intentions to proceed despite criticism. White House spokesman Davis Ingle claimed the arch would be a world-renowned landmark and enhance visitor experiences at Arlington National Cemetery, recognizing American heroes’ sacrifices. He stated that Trump “will continue to honor our veterans and give the greatest Nation on earth—America—the glory it deserves.”
A White House official noted plans to fund the project with both public and private contributions, amid unresolved cost assessments. Construction timing is expected before the conclusion of Trump’s second term. Initial work will commence, pending necessary approvals.
Military Role Sparks Questions
Trump recently announced that the structure would serve dual functions, including military facilities. His proposal expanded the arch’s initial public purposes to include drone operations, snipers, and ammunition storage. This shift has sparked criticism, particularly from Virginia Representative Don Beyer, a Democrat representing the district adjacent to the planned construction site.
There is ongoing debate over required approvals and the need for congressional authorization. While the Commission of Fine Arts has approved the concept, reviews by the National Capital Planning Commission are pending.
Simpson also expressed concerns over press restrictions unrelated to the arch. He criticized the limitation of certain news organizations’ access and defended press freedom. “Just because you don’t like what the press is reporting… that’s not the reason to ban the press,” he argued, supporting the notion that the press ensures accountability.
A White House official rebutted these criticisms, suggesting that “Fake News” does not deserve a place in the Oval Office, advocating for reporting from outside. Simpson maintained, “You should never ban the press,” highlighting its essential role in maintaining honesty.