The Commonwealth of Virginia has recently filed a lawsuit to block U.S. President Donald Trump from constructing the so-called “triumphal arch” near Arlington National Cemetery. The move was supported by Democratic Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, but it sparked some backlash against the politician from Trump supporters.
In an interview with CNN, which was shared on X by the governor herself, she argued that the construction was “unlawful.” Spanberger also alleged that Virginia made it clear what kind of damage could be done if the arch were constructed, but the Trump administration reportedly wants to proceed anyway.
One of the main points of contention is that the archway would cast a shadow over Arlington National Cemetery, which was seen as disrespectful to the veterans buried there. Spanberger described the construction of the archway as “defiling and defacing an incredibly important historic landmark.”
Internet Criticizes Governor Spanberger
Spanberger’s stance against the construction of the arch did not sit well with X users, as many criticized her for supporting the lawsuit. According to one user, the whole thing was a “petty waste of time and money for your constituents.”
Others even disagreed with her claims, although they did not provide any evidence that she was wrong: “No it wouldn’t, it will look great and you know it!! Stop wasting state money to argue over it! RESIGN!”
Most of the criticism, however, focused on how the lawsuit was seen as “money wasted” while Virginians faced a high cost of living: “This is like, so important to making the cost of living for Virginia lower. You really have your priorities in order.”
Some folks also had strong words for Spanberger: “You don’t give a [expletive] about veterans. Go to hell.”
The reaction was not entirely negative, however, as a few people did seem to agree with the Virginia governor. One of them wrote: “I can’t imagine that even the most dedicated MAGA Trump cultist supports that worthless waste of money. No one needs the arch. No one.”
It’s still too early to know what the courts will decide, but the contentious project will likely continue to cause disagreements among Virginians for a while yet.
