Planned Trump arch could overshadow Kennedy graves, family members seek to block construction
Kennedys seek to join lawsuits
The family argued it has a “direct, immediate stake in this matter,” along with claims involving shared legal questions. The cases challenge the project’s construction.
Concerns about graves and views
The Kennedys say the planned site in the nation’s capital could cast a shadow over the graves of some of their relatives. They also argue the arch would obstruct the view from the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame memorial across Arlington Memorial Bridge to the Lincoln Memorial. The family described that sight line as “an essential element” of the memorial’s design. In a statement, Rory Kennedy and Maxwell Kennedy said their request was about “protecting sacred spaces.”
Construction already blocked
The dispute adds to tensions between Trump and the Kennedy family. They have also clashed over his effort to remake the Kennedy Center; Trump closed the arts institution after a judge blocked his attempt to add his name to the building.
Key points
- Nine Kennedy family members want to join two lawsuits challenging Trump’s planned arch.
- They say the project could shadow relatives’ graves and block a memorial sight line.
- A federal judge blocked construction last week after a planning board approved the project.
- The Kennedy family has also clashed with Trump over the Kennedy Center.