Judge blocks Trump arch hours after planning panel approval

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan blocked construction of the 250-foot memorial arch for 14 days on Nov. 5, 2026, hours after the National Capital Planning Commission approved it 8-4. "The harm is certain," she wrote, citing notice that work could begin that same day and unrecoverable costs once construction starts for managing detours, crashes or disabled vehicles. The remote hearing ran about 9.5 to nearly 10 hours with technical crashes; scores of witnesses spoke in opposition, and protesters gathered near Memorial Circle by Arlington National Cemetery. Mark Paoletta opened the meeting praising the monument and said the great cities around the world have arches. Paul Ingrassia said it was not about politics but remembrance, celebrating history and commemorating veterans. Phil Mendelson said the panel cannot approve final site and building plans until it has them and that the plan lacks congressional approval. Jared Huffman said, "This arch would dishonor America." WHAT'S CONTESTED: The administration cites a 1925 law designating a memorial at the site; Mendelson said congressional approval and final plans are lacking. D.C. and Virginia sued; one account also names three Vietnam War veterans and a historic preservationist as plaintiffs, with a filing dated Oct. 31. Cost estimates run as high as $100 million; funding remains unclear.