Trump ordered by appeals court to stop White House ballroom construction

WASHINGTON — A federal appeals court blocked further construction of President Trump’s new White House ballroom, ruling that the massive project must first receive congressional approval.

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In a 2-1 decision, a panel of DC circuit judges determined that “Congress has exclusive authority to regulate the construction and demolition of White House structures.”

“We are aware of no instance in American history in which a President unilaterally and using privately collected funds demolished substantial portions of the White House that Congress authorized to be built and American taxpayers paid for. Until now,” wrote judges Patricia Millet and Bradley Garcia for the majority.

“The Constitution’s Property Clause vests Congress with plenary control over all real property that belongs to the United States,” they said.

“Congress has not ceded unfettered authority to the Executive Branch to dramatically redesign, reshape, and reconstruct the White House — the People’s House — to fit a particular President’s desires.”

Circuit Judge Neomi Rao dissented that the district court, which initially paused construction, “had no jurisdiction because the [National] Trust has no standing to stop construction at the White House.”

“The ballroom is also likely within the President’s authority to make improvements to the Executive Residence at the White House,” Rao added. “The district court elevated the aesthetic displeasure of a single passerby over the government’s security interests in the ballroom and the security risks of leaving an open construction site at the President’s home and office.”

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The ruling will be paused for 14 days, giving the Trump administration the option to appeal to the US Supreme Court.

Reps for the White House and DOJ did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The 90,000-square-foot project could cost upwards of $600 million. Trump has prioritized its construction to host large-scale dinners with enhanced security measures.

Demolition of the White House’s East Wing began last year to prepare for the new building, before the National Trust for Historic Preservation filed suit.

The nonprofit alleged that the president and National Park Service didn’t have the authority to destroy the historic structure or build a new one without Congress’ approval.

A federal district judge later ruled twice in favor of pausing construction, while still letting some work underground continue.

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