A U.S. federal judge has expressed significant skepticism over the legality of the Trump administration’s plans to build a $400 million ballroom at the White House. During a hearing regarding a lawsuit filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Judge Richard Leon questioned whether President Trump had the statutory power to demolish the East Wing and construct the proposed 90,000-square-foot facility without explicit congressional approval.
The judge sharply rebuked a lawyer for the administration, stating “Come on, be serious,” after comparisons were made to minor renovations such as the installation of a swimming pool during the Gerald Ford administration in the 1970s. Judge Leon indicated he would issue a ruling in the coming weeks on the National Trust’s request for a preliminary injunction, which aims to halt the construction work.
The National Trust argues that federal law prohibits construction on federal parkland in Washington without express congressional authority. The group also contends that the National Park Service violated federal law by issuing an environmental assessment instead of a full impact statement and releasing it only after the 120-year-old East Wing had already been demolished.
While the White House and other federal defendants are urging the court to deny the preliminary injunction, the administration has defended the project’s legality, asserting it follows a long tradition of presidential renovations, including Franklin D. Roosevelt’s original construction of the East Wing. The administration has also stated that the ballroom is essential for state functions and its design is still evolving, with above-ground construction not planned until April.
The case has raised significant questions about the extent of the president’s authority to undertake major construction projects at the White House without explicit congressional approval. The outcome of the legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the administration’s plans and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.
