Republican Lawmaker Opposes Pentagon Funding for Trump’s Arch Project

A prominent House Republican, Mike Simpson from Idaho, has expressed opposition to the use of government funds for President Donald Trump’s proposed triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. This marks a rare public disagreement between the administration and a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.

Simpson firmly stated his unwillingness to support directing Pentagon dollars toward the arch after Trump suggested its military utility by housing drones, snipers, and ammunition. “There’s a lot of things that we need the military funding for—in fact, we’re short on military funding right now,” Simpson told reporters.

When questioned whether the Defense Department should finance the project at all, Simpson was clear: “If it was my choice, I wouldn’t put any of that money into the arch.”

GOP Pushback Emerges

Simpson’s remarks are significant because they come from a lawmaker with direct influence over federal spending decisions, where Republicans have largely supported Trump’s vision for the project. The president’s proposal represents one of the most ambitious construction efforts of his second term. Trump has described the monument as a celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, akin to landmarks in cities such as Paris, Rome, and London.

In a February interview with NBC News, Trump confidently compared the project to Paris’s Arc de Triomphe: “We’re doing one that will be more magnificent and larger…We’re going to do one that’s going to top it.”

Simpson emphasized the need for congressional involvement when using appropriated dollars: “I hope if they decide to do it, that they would come to Congress and ask for an appropriation.” His concerns are echoed by critics including veterans groups and congressional Democrats questioning whether Congress has authorized the monument.

White House Defends Project

The White House is pushing ahead despite criticism. White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Newsweek that the arch is destined to become “one of the most iconic landmarks.” Ingle argued it would enhance visitor experiences at Arlington National Cemetery and honor American heroes throughout history.

Ingle mentioned that the administration plans to utilize “some combination of public and private funds” for the project. He noted that cost estimates are pending and the White House expects completion before the end of Trump’s second term. Work will begin on aspects not requiring final approval while seeking necessary agency approvals.

Military Role Sparks Questions

Simpson’s comments came after Trump announced the arch would serve military purposes, prompting critique. Trump noted the structure’s military facility potential in a Truth Social post, which proposes it could house drones, snipers, and ammunition.

Planning documents previously outlined a monumental gateway with public spaces and an observation deck, but did not mention military uses.

Virginia Representative Don Beyer, a Democrat, called the military adaptation “stupid, dangerous, and unworkable” due to the site’s proximity to a major airport.

The White House confirmed the Commission of Fine Arts approved the arch, while National Capital Planning Commission review is ongoing.

Defending Press Access

Simpson also criticized restrictions on press access to news organizations, advocating for openness. He rejected ideas about barring reporters from the House floor, commenting, “Just because you don’t like what the press is reporting…that’s not the reason to ban the press.”

An unnamed White House official defended the stance against “Fake News,” mentioning the media’s ability to report externally.

Simpson rejected the justification for limiting press access: “You should never ban the press…The press is what keeps us honest.”