For over a week now, there has been an inundation of news stories surrounding Donald Trump's visit to Arlington on Monday, August 28th. While there have been hot and cold takes on the story, it is clear that an altercation took place when a cemetery official attempted to enforce a rule prohibiting filming and photography for political purposes. The law in question states:
“Federal law prohibits political campaign or election-related activities within Army National Military Cemeteries, to include photographers, content creators or any other persons attending for purposes, or in direct support of a partisan political candidate’s campaign.”
Is there wiggle room for the Trump campaign to suggest that the visit was made without partisan political intent? I expect an argument could be made to that effect. Some point to the fact that Donald Trump's visit was welcomed by families who lost loved ones in the tragedy of the Abbey Gate Bombing during the 2021 mayhem of the Afghanistan withdrawal. It is also clear other bereft families found the photo op of Donald Trump grinning and giving a thumbs-up signal to be particularly offensive.
Conduct at Arlington and other US military cemeteries is governed by rules set and enforced by the military to maintain decorum for the deceased and their families. We must ask whether rules and laws apply to all citizens and visitors to the cemetery or if different rules apply to those elected to the highest office of the land.
