Lawmakers Warn Trump Administration Over Unauthorized Monument

In a letter addressed to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and national park officials, a group of Democratic lawmakers and an independent senator cautioned the Trump administration. They warned of potential fines and criminal charges if the administration proceeds with constructing a 250-foot triumphal arch in Washington without legislative approval.

The Interior Department representative described the arch as a project of national pride, while lawmakers expressed their concerns on Monday. The letter highlighted that moving forward with the project would violate at least three laws and mentioned possible personal penalties for Trump officials involved.

Appropriated funds may be applied only to the objects for which Congress appropriated them, the letter stated. It further warned that utilizing unauthorized funds could lead to suspension without pay, removal from office and, for knowing and willful violations, criminal fines and imprisonment.

Senator Angus King, an independent from Maine, aligning with Democrats, and Representative Jared Huffman from California, a leading Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, were among the signatories.

The lawmakers also cited violations of the Commemorative Works Act, a 1912 law regulating federal land constructions, and the Height of Buildings Act, restricting structures in Washington to under 160 feet.

In an interview, Mr. King called the project stone-cold illegal, stressing the legal clarity of the situation, reflecting on his five decades of legal experience.