A federal judge has ordered former President Donald Trump to halt construction on his $400 million White House ballroom until Congress grants approval, Reuters reports. The ruling by Judge Richard Leon comes amid a lawsuit from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which challenged the legality of the project’s initiation without legislative consent.
The courtroom decision specifically suspends above-ground construction at the East Wing of the White House but permits work to address safety concerns to continue. Judge Leon warned that any illegal construction beginning within 14 days could face removal, highlighting the legal stakes involved, according to Raw Story.
Despite the ruling, Republican congressional leaders have largely remained silent or uncommitted about endorsing the project. Both The Independent and Raw Story note that GOP lawmakers appear reluctant to take responsibility for the approval process, casting doubt on whether the ballroom can meet its targeted completion date of 2028.
The Bulwark reports that the ballroom project has been a prominent feature in Trump’s public remarks, underscoring his personal investment in the initiative. However, the judge’s order now places the future of the ballroom in legal and political uncertainty.
Observers will be watching whether Congress opts to formally approve the construction, a move that could resolve the impasse. The situation may also result in further legal challenges if construction activities resume without congressional sanction, as outlined by Judge Leon’s warning.
Donald Trump
Dwight de Leon
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