President Donald Trump is kicking off 2026 by doubling down on his promise to “beautify” the nation’s capital with a series of massive, norm-shattering projects. In a New Year’s phone call with Politico, the President confirmed that construction for the “Triumphal Arch”—already nicknamed the “Arc de Trump”—is set to break ground by February. The monument, a classical stone arch inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, will be situated in the center of Memorial Circle on the Virginia side of the Potomac River, creating a new, dominant landmark directly across from the Lincoln Memorial.
But the President isn’t just focused on stone and mortar. To celebrate America’s 250th birthday and his own 80th birthday, Trump revealed that the White House South Lawn will be transformed into a combat sports arena. On June 14, 2026, UFC President Dana White will host a historic 10-match championship card—the first professional MMA event ever held at the presidential residence. “Dana’s picking the best,” Trump told Politico. “It’s going to be the best ever.”
