A Washington federal judge has issued a ruling impacting President Trump’s plans for a new $400 million ballroom at the White House. The judge halted the project, requiring Congressional approval before construction can proceed, even with private funding.
The decision represents a setback for the president’s priority project, which involves a 90,000-square-foot addition. A nonprofit organization had filed a lawsuit alleging Trump began construction and demolished part of the historic East Wing without the necessary Congressional authorization.
President Trump responded to the ruling by criticizing the National Trust for Historic Preservation, stating they do not appreciate his efforts to improve Washington’s buildings. A key vote regarding the project was also anticipated this week.
The judge granted a preliminary injunction requested by a preservationist group, pausing the project while the legal challenges are addressed.