Trump allies are poised to weaken protections for historic sites — not just in D.C.

The Trump administration is considering reducing federal oversight on construction projects that impact historic sites, which could help advance President Trump’s proposed 250-foot triumphal arch in Washington, D.C. Critics argue this move could threaten the preservation of historic and cultural sites across the U.S. The National Register of Historic Places includes over 100,000 properties, and the current law requires federal agencies to assess the impact of new projects on these sites. The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, largely appointed by Trump, is looking to weaken these protections. This change could affect millions of historic sites, raising concerns about the future of America’s cultural heritage. QUESTION: How might weakening historic preservation laws impact the way future generations connect with their cultural heritage?