Judge Halts White House Ballroom Construction Pending Congressional Approval
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A federal judge has ordered the suspension of President Trump's $400 million White House ballroom project, citing the need for congressional authorization.
A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to suspend construction of a $400 million ballroom at the White House, following the demolition of the historic East Wing. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon granted a preliminary injunction in response to a lawsuit filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which argued that the project lacked proper congressional approval and bypassed required legal reviews.
Judge Leon emphasized that the president serves as a steward of the White House but does not own it, stating that any significant modifications require legislative authorization. He noted that no statute grants the president the authority claimed for this construction.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation welcomed the ruling as a victory for public oversight and historical preservation. The White House has announced plans to appeal the decision, maintaining that the project is funded by private donors and does not require congressional approval.
The injunction allows for a 14-day delay to permit the administration to appeal and exempts construction work necessary for safety and security.