• Donald Trump proposes a triumphal arch, dubbed the "Arc de Trump," across from the Lincoln Memorial.
• The arch aims to celebrate America's 250th anniversary in 2026 and is inspired by Paris's Arc de Triomphe.
• The project, revealed at a White House dinner, is reportedly supported by private funding.
• Trump’s architectural vision includes a $250 million ballroom and extensive renovations at the White House.
• Details on the arch's cost and timeline remain unclear, but Trump expressed a preference for a larger design.

US President Donald Trump has unveiled plans for a triumphal arch, informally dubbed the "Arc de Trump," to be built across from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. This project is intended to commemorate America's 250th anniversary in 2026 and aims to symbolize a resurgence of national pride, with design elements inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Trump commented that "every time somebody rides over that beautiful bridge to the Lincoln Memorial, they literally say something is supposed to be here," further promoting his vision for the structure, according to BBC.

The proposed arch will also serve as a gateway for visitors crossing the Memorial Bridge from Arlington National Cemetery into the capital. Trump showcased mock-ups and designs, expressing a clear preference for the largest version of the arch at a recent White House fundraising dinner, where he said, "It's going to be really beautiful. I think it's going to be fantastic." The arch is part of Trump's broader initiative, which includes a $250 million ballroom and various renovations throughout the White House, according to India Times, India Times, and South China Morning Post.

Architect Nicolas Leo Charbonneau from Harrison Design is involved in the arch's conception, having shared watercolor renderings on social media, declaring "America needs a triumphal arch!" Although the timeline and budget for the project remain unconfirmed, it is suggested that surplus funds from the ballroom project may finance the arch's construction. Trump noted that "it’s so relaxing for me" when discussing the real estate aspects of his plans, according to CBS News and BBC.

Historically, the proposed arch site at the Arlington Memorial Bridge is a significant visual point in Washington, D.C., where it may replace existing columns, enhancing the area's classical architecture. Trump’s aspirations suggest a shift in how the capital’s landscape might reflect his personal legacy, a vision that harkens back to other historical architectural ideas for the location, according to South China Morning Post.