A federal appeals court rules that the Trump administration cannot move forward with plans to construct a new White House ballroom without congressional approval. In a 2–1 decision issued Friday, the court holds that the White House does not have authority to unilaterally build the project where the East Wing once stood. The ruling directs construction to stop, while allowing limited work related to safety and security needs.
Multiple outlets report the project is described as a large facility, with one account characterizing it as about 90,000 square feet. The project has been described in reporting as costing roughly $400 million. The decision emphasizes that approval from Congress is required for the construction rather than being handled solely by the executive branch.
The court’s order is presented as an injunction-like halt pending the necessary authorization, with the exception of measures deemed necessary for safety and security.
