Hegseth, Mullin call Trump’s arch a ‘generational defense opportunity’

President Trump’s proposed triumphal arch would be a “generational defense opportunity,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin have argued in court declarations.

Critics have dismissed Trump’s attempts to link the arch to national security needs as a smokescreen to push through a divisive construction project.

In filings submitted to a federal court on Wednesday, Hegseth and Mullins said the arch intended for erection between Arlington National Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial was needed to keep the U.S. safe from drone attacks and to serve as a base for snipers.

“The arch is a generational national defense opportunity to mitigate these evolving threats,” Hegseth said, adding that the arch’s proposed 250-foot height would give a “significant elevation advantage” as it could enhance “lines of sight from both sensors and personnel.”

“It will be utilized as a dual-purpose structure: a major national monument that also incorporates military utility to support Homeland defense,” he said.

Mullin, meanwhile, told the court that the arch would “incorporate a number of features that will support national security,” and could be used by the Secret Service........

© The Hill