US President Donald Trump is facing a federal lawsuit from the National Trust for Historic Preservation that seeks to halt his White House ballroom project until it passes several independent reviews and gets approval from Congress.
The trust argues that the construction, which has already included the demolition of the east wing, violates federal law and circumvents required procedures.
Legal claims and arguments
The lawsuit alleges that Trump accelerated the project in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, while exceeding his constitutional authority by failing to consult with lawmakers.
“No president is legally allowed to tear down parts of the White House without any oversight — not President Trump, not President Biden, not anyone else,” the complaint said.
The Trust argues that no further work should proceed until design reviews, environmental assessments, public comments and congressional hearings are completed.
Federal oversight requirements
The lawsuit emphasizes that White House projects of this magnitude must involve the National Capital Planning Commission, the Commission on Fine Arts and Congress before any demolition or construction.
The trust previously wrote to those authorities on October 21, after demolition of the east wing began, urging the administration to halt the project and comply with federal law.
Trump’s position and private funding
Trump said the ballroom is privately funded, including with his own money, citing practical concerns such as hosting large events and avoiding outdoor tents in inclement weather. However, the trust notes that the use of private funds does not exempt the project from federal oversight.
Timeline of the review process
Will Scharf, chairman of the National Capital Planning Commission and a Trump adviser, said plans for the new ballroom will be presented to the commission in December. He added that the review would take place at a “normal and consultative pace”, but the Trust says submitting the plans after construction has started is insufficient and legally inappropriate.
Meaning of the project
The complaint emphasizes the historic and public significance of the White House, noting that public involvement in the review process is key to building “perhaps the most recognizable and historically significant building in the country.”
Defendants named in the complaint
In addition to President Trump, the lawsuit names the National Park Service, the Department of the Interior, the General Services Administration and agency heads as defendants.
