Senior House Republican Mike Simpson has publicly opposed using federal funds for President Donald Trump’s proposed triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. The Idaho representative, a key member of the House Appropriations Committee, expressed his stance on Monday. He stated he would not support using Pentagon funds for the project. Trump had recently suggested the monument could serve military purposes by hosting 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 remarked to reporters. When asked whether the Defense Department should finance the project at all, his response was clear: “If it was my choice, I wouldn’t put any of that money into the arch,” he said.
GOP Pushback Emerges
Simpson’s comments are significant due to his influence over federal spending and because they signal a rare Republican disagreement with Trump on a high-profile project. The president’s plan for the 250-foot structure, intended to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, has been a priority for his administration. Trump ambitiously compared the proposed monument to famous arches in Paris, Rome, and London, stating in a February interview, “We’re doing one that will be more magnificent and larger than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. We’re going to top it.”
Simpson emphasized the necessity of congressional involvement if funds are to be appropriated, saying, “I hope if they decide to do it, that they would come to Congress and ask for an appropriation for it if they’re going to use appropriated dollars to do it.” His concerns reflect those of other critics, including veterans groups and congressional Democrats, who have questioned the monument’s authorization and the use of taxpayer money for construction.
White House Defends Project
Despite criticism, the White House remains committed to the project. White House spokesman Davis Ingle described the arch as an upcoming iconic landmark, enhancing the visitor experience at Arlington National Cemetery. “It will enhance the visitor experience for veterans, the families of the fallen, and all Americans alike,” Ingle said. He highlighted the project’s role in reminding people of the sacrifices made by American heroes over 250 years.
A White House official, preferring anonymity, mentioned that a mix of public and private funds would finance the project. Though cost estimates are pending, the administration expects completion before the end of Trump’s term, with initial work starting amid ongoing approvals from necessary agencies.
Military Role Sparks Questions
The project’s dual purpose, as both monument and military facility, has sparked debate. Trump’s recent announcement stated the arch would become a “top-grade Military Complex,” accommodating drones and snipers. He claimed this shift followed a strong military request to address security needs.
This expansion from earlier plans, which focused on public spaces and an observation deck, has faced criticism. Virginia Representative Don Beyer, representing the nearby area, criticized the new military function. “[The concept is] stupid, dangerous, and unworkable,” Beyer commented, citing proximity to Reagan National Airport.
Trump’s announcement also fueled discussions about whether the project needs additional approvals or congressional authorization. The White House indicated that the Commission of Fine Arts has approved the arch, while the National Capital Planning Commission’s review is ongoing.
On a separate note, Simpson criticized the administration for press restrictions imposed on several news organizations, voicing concerns over limiting access to the Speaker’s Lobby. “Just because you don’t like what the press is reporting…that’s not the reason to ban the press,” Simpson said.
A White House official defended these measures, arguing “The Fake News has no place demanding a spot in the President’s Oval Office.” Simpson, however, stressed, “The press is what keeps us honest,” urging against banning the press.
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