D.C. and Virginia file emergency lawsuit

Washington D.C.and Virginia sued the National Park Service and Interior Department on Saturday to stop construction on President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot triumphal arch.The Trump Administration said construction could begin as early as next week.

Three lawsuits now challenge the arch

The D.C. and Virginia lawsuit joins two existing lawsuits against the arch, adding to legal battles testing the limits of Trump's authority to remake Washington.

Lawsuit cites four federal law violations

The lawsuit calls the project flagrantly unlawful and alleges violations of the Commemorative Works Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act.

Virginia Attorney General defends the lawsuit

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones said the Commonwealth has a solemn duty to preserve the dignity of the place and will vigorously litigate to protect its sanctity and honor the legacy of those who made…

“The Commonwealth has a solemn duty and a profound interest in preserving the dignity of this sacred place.”

Administration claims 1925 Congressional approval

The Trump Administration argues Congress already authorized construction at the site in 1925 when it approved plans for Arlington Memorial Bridge that included two monumental columns, which were never built.

Trump adds military complex to justify urgency

Trump announced last month he agreed to incorporate a military complex into the arch, including facilities for drones and snipers, at the Defense Department's request, to defend against national security threats.

Judge questions the rush to build

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan seemed skeptical of the urgency at Friday's hearing, asking what harm waiting three or four months would cause and noting the issue was complex.

“What's the harm to the government to wait 3 or 4 months? What's the rush to put this arch up?”

Final approval scheduled for November 5

The National Capital Planning Commission is scheduled to consider final approval of the arch on November 5. The Interior Department must also issue final authorization that same day, allowing construction to begin immediately.

Judge to rule on standing over the weekend

Judge Chutkan said she would consider the plaintiffs' standing over the weekend and rule expeditiously on whether to block construction before the November 5 approval date.