WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump criticized a federal judge’s ruling that halted the construction of a $400 million White House ballroom, allowing only underground work on a bunker and other “national security facilities” at the site.
U.S. District Judge Richard Leon’s decision was in response to an appeals court’s request to clarify an earlier ruling on the 90,000-square-foot ballroom project. Trump, on social media, called Judge Leon a “Trump Hating” judge who is hindering national security efforts.
The administration plans to appeal Leon’s latest decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. National Trust for Historic Preservation president Carol Quillen expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling.
The project involves security measures to protect against potential threats like drones, ballistic missiles, and biohazards. Leon’s ruling came after a three-judge panel instructed him to reconsider the national security implications of halting construction.
Leon’s previous order prohibited above-ground work without congressional approval and exempted construction necessary for White House safety. He paused his latest decision for a week to allow the administration time to seek Supreme Court review.
The judge ordered a stop to above-ground construction of the ballroom but allowed work on excavations, bunkers, military installations, and medical facilities below. He emphasized that national security should not sanction illegal activity and rejected the notion that the entire project is exempt.
The appeals court panel raised concerns about suspending parts of the project and emphasized the importance of safety. Trump’s ballroom project obtained final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission on April 2, amid legal challenges by preservation groups.
The White House demolished the East Wing for the ballroom construction, which Trump claims is privately funded. Public funds cover bunker construction and security enhancements.
