A federal judge on Tuesday issued an order halting construction on President Donald Trump’s ballroom at the White House unless Congress gives “express authorization” to move the project forward.
In his 62-page opinion, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon for the District of Columbia wrote the president of the United States “is the steward of the White House for future generations of First Families. He is not, however, the owner!”
Leon, a George W. Bush appointee, wrote his order takes effect in 14 days, allowing time for an appeal.
“Where does this leave us?” Leon wrote. “Unfortunately for Defendants, unless and until Congress blesses this project through statutory authorization, construction has to stop!”
He concluded, “But here is the good news. It is not too late for Congress to authorize the continued construction of the ballroom project. … Either way, Congress will thereby retain its authority over the nation’s property and its oversight over the Government’s spending.” Read the judge’s full order above.
Hayley Meissner is the senior producer for MS NOW’s Breaking News and Blogs team. Recommended
