Cage Fights at the White House! A Colossal Arch! Trump's Ostentatious Proposals for America's 250th Semiquincentennial

When the nation observed its bicentennial on July 4, 1976, the occasion was marked by the inauguration of the National Air and Space Museum's main building on Washington DC's National Mall. Designed in a boldly modernist style, it served as a monument to American aeronautical achievements, spanning from the first flight to the moon landings.

At that juncture, despite the recent shadow of political shenanigans, there was a pervasive sense of a nation looking toward progress and scientific advancement. Period recreations were present, yet the dominant narrative was firmly on the future and modernity.

“The one that people know mostly is the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. And we’re gonna top it by, I think, a lot.”

Now, half a century later, as preparations ramp up for the 250th anniversary, the architectural vision appears to have shifted decisively toward historical re-enactment. Intent on imprinting a unmistakably gilded imprimatur on the capital, designs for a triumphal arch to be erected near the Lincoln Memorial have been promoted. Three uncredited versions of this monument, now dubbed the “Independence Arch,” display varying levels of gold leaf and statuary.

Given the documented affinity for bling, many anticipate the gold-plated iteration to be selected. Critics have described the aesthetic as reminiscent of “regional car dealership rococo.” All designs are patterned on the ancient Arch of Titus in Rome, a historical form repeated throughout history in arches like the Arc de Triomphe.

Size and Symbolism: A Foot for Every Year

Initial proposals presented three different sizes, but the most massive option—standing at 250 feet tall—has reportedly been chosen. This “foot-per-year” symbolism is seen as perfectly aligning with the anniversary's motifs. For perspective, this would significantly surpass the 164-foot height of Paris's Arc de Triomphe.

Historically, monumental arches—particularly immense ones—have been a magnet for authoritarian leaders. Historical visions for similarly colossal arches in other cities highlight this tradition of using monumental design to project power and permanence.

Additional Proposals: Currency and Combat

The monumental plans are accompanied by other unconventional initiatives for the semiquincentennial. These reportedly include:

• Commemorative Coins: Minting $1 coins featuring a contemporary figure's likeness, a move that would break a century-old law barring such a practice.
• White House UFC Event: Hosting a major ultimate fighting event in a temporary arena on the White House's South Lawn, a prospect unprecedented for prior administrations.

These proposals have contributed to a perception of an administration willing to blur the lines between official function and political spectacle.

Cultural Pushback: The Fate of the Kennedy Center

Another contentious proposal involves the proposed redevelopment of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, a landmark example of mid-century architecture. This has sparked significant resistance from heritage groups.

One such organization has forcefully condemned the approach, arguing that the building is a “beloved cultural institution” and a “significant work of modern architecture.” They have expressed serious alarm over an “absence of adherence to regulatory processes” and asserted that such public sites “must be stewarded transparently, not treated as personal property.”

Echoes of Rome

Through these endeavors, there is a clear effort to co-opt historical symbolism for current personal ends. Mandates favoring “traditional” architectural styles for federal buildings are viewed by observers as a strategic move to consolidate influence over public space and marginalize modernist expressions.

While the envisioned arch is marketed as a tribute to national independence, its imposing scale and associated symbolism invite historical parallels. It recalls the ancient practice of a attendant whispering “Memento mori” to a triumphant general—a reminder of transience and the impermanent nature of all things.