A U.S. judge has issued a temporary injunction against President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom construction project, citing the failure to adhere to proper procedures prior to the project’s initiation.
The ruling yesterday, comes in response to a lawsuit filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which argued that the White House violated legal protocols by commencing construction without submitting plans to the National Capital Planning Commission or conducting an environmental assessment.
The preservation group also contended that President Trump’s administration did not seek Congressional approval for the project, thus infringing upon constitutional rights reserved for Congress regarding federal property.
Judge Richard Leon stated, “I have concluded that the National Trust is likely to succeed on the merits because no statute comes close to giving the President the authority he claims to have.” He emphasized that while the President serves as a steward of the White House for future generations, he does not possess ownership rights over it.
The judge’s 35-page ruling, which was issued yesterday, included several emphatic statements, asserting that construction must cease until Congress grants authorization. The order will take effect in 14 days, allowing time for a potential appeal.
Trump responded to the decision on his social media platform, asserting that the ballroom project is progressing well and will be “the finest Building of its kind anywhere in the World.” He criticized the ruling and defended his administration’s stance that the project was more cost-effective than renovating the East Wing, which was demolished in October to make way for the new ballroom.
Originally planned to accommodate 500 guests, the ballroom’s design has since expanded to host up to 1,350 attendees. The White House estimates that the total cost of the project will reach $400 million, funded entirely through private donations.
Carol Quillen, president of the National Trust, expressed satisfaction with Judge Leon’s ruling, stating, “We are pleased with Judge Leon’s ruling today to order a halt to any further ballroom construction until the Administration complies with the law and obtains express authorization to go forward. This is a win for the American people on a project that forever impacts one of the most beloved and iconic places in our nation.”
In his conclusion, Judge Leon remarked that Congressional approval would benefit the American public by ensuring that government branches fulfill their constitutionally designated roles.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong