Story perspectives

Judge Allows Limited $7.5 Million Eisenhower Building Paint Testing

8/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Judge Dabney Freidrich allowed the Trump administration to test painting the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, a project that could cost $7.5 million.
The order limits testing to about eight square feet of exterior and hidden panels, and the judge may step in if work expands.
Preservationists say the paint could trap moisture in the granite, and attorney Gregory Werkheiser argues the president illegally took authority from the General Services Administration (GSA).

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Story summary

Judge Dabney Freidrich allowed the Trump administration to test painting the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, a project that could cost $7.5 million.
The order limits testing to about eight square feet of exterior and hidden panels, and the judge may step in if work expands.
Preservationists say the paint could trap moisture in the granite, and attorney Gregory Werkheiser argues the president illegally took authority from the General Services Administration (GSA).