Story perspectives

Judge Questions Trump's Authority on $400M East Wing Project

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon questioned whether U.S. President Donald Trump had authority to demolish the East Wing for a $400 million ballroom project without congressional approval, during a hearing in Washington, D.C.
He criticized the DOJ's 'alteration' label as a brazen interpretation of the law.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation sought a temporary injunction to halt construction, and Leon plans to rule by the end of March and construction is set for April.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon questioned whether U.S. President Donald Trump had authority to demolish the East Wing for a $400 million ballroom project without congressional approval, during a hearing in Washington, D.C.
He criticized the DOJ's 'alteration' label as a brazen interpretation of the law.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation sought a temporary injunction to halt construction, and Leon plans to rule by the end of March and construction is set for April.