Preservationists Sue Trump Over White House Ballroom Project
President Donald Trump faces a lawsuit from preservationists seeking to halt his White House ballroom project until it undergoes necessary federal reviews and Congressional approval. The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed the suit on Friday, arguing that the demolition of the East Wing must be examined through comprehensive processes mandated by law.
Why It Matters
This legal action highlights significant concerns from the historical preservation community regarding the potential impact of Trump’s ballroom project on one of the nation’s most iconic structures. As the case unfolds, it may set important precedents regarding presidential projects on federal property and the role of public input in such decisions.
Key Developments
- Lawsuit Filed: The National Trust for Historic Preservation is asking the U.S. District Court to stop the ongoing White House ballroom project until all required reviews and approvals are obtained.
- Claims of Legal Violations: The lawsuit alleges violations of the Administrative Procedures Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, as well as exceeding constitutional authority by not consulting Congress.
- Demolition Under Scrutiny: The East Wing of the White House was recently demolished to make way for the new ballroom, prompting outcry from preservation advocates.
- Trump’s Stance: The president asserts that the project is funded by private money, stating the need for a larger venue due to issues faced during outdoor events.
- Next Steps: Plans for the ballroom are expected to be submitted to federal planning authorities by the end of the year, but the lawsuit argues that these steps are insufficient and overdue.
Full Report
Lawsuit Details
The National Trust for Historic Preservation claims that no president has the legal authority to demolish parts of the White House without undergoing the proper review process. The lawsuit argues that Trump’s expedited removal of the East Wing and simultaneous construction of the ballroom bypassed crucial legal requirements, including public engagement and legislative approval.
The Trust emphasizes the importance of the required reviews, stating, “No president is legally allowed to construct a ballroom on public property without giving the public the opportunity to weigh in.” The organization is seeking a court declaration to affirm that these laws have indeed been violated.
Trump Administration’s Response
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the lawsuit and whether Trump plans to engage Congress. Despite the claims that the project is privately funded, the Trust argues that this does not exempt it from adhering to federal regulations governing government projects.
Ongoing Construction
As construction progresses, heavy machinery remains at work on the demolished site of the East Wing. Trump has long advocated for a ballroom, arguing that the existing spaces are inadequate for hosting large gatherings, often faced with weather-related inconveniences during events.
Planned Submissions
Will Scharf, appointed by Trump as chairman of the National Capital Planning Commission, recently stated that plans for the new ballroom should be submitted by December, allowing for the commission’s review. However, preservationists argue that these actions should have occurred before any demolition began.
Context & Previous Events
The demolition of the East Wing commenced without public input, which the National Trust attempted to remedy by reaching out to relevant entities on October 21. Their call to halt the project and comply with federal laws received no response, prompting the current legal action that underscores the tension between the administration’s plans and historical preservation efforts.
