Trump Files Emergency Motion to Continue White House Ballroom Construction

The Trump administration has filed an emergency motion with a federal court to resume construction on its White House ballroom. The motion argues that the recent suspension of work was “improper” and left national security vulnerabilities. Lawyers for the administration and the National Park Service claim that the court-ordered halt posed significant risks to the White House, the President, his family, and staff.

The motion highlights various security measures planned for the ballroom project, including drone-proof roofing materials and glass designed to withstand bullets and blasts. The filing emphasizes the need for completion of the work, stating that “time is of the essence.”

A recent court ruling from Judge Richard Leon had ordered construction on the project to stop due to a lack of congressional approval. The judge’s 35-page decision cited concerns over the transformative nature of the project and the need for public input.

The Trump administration has long sought to revamp the White House, including plans to construct a ballroom with more space for White House functions. Historians, architects, and preservation advocates had expressed concerns about the potential impact on existing designs and structures, including the East Wing.

In October, the Trump administration demolished the East Wing, which was built in 1902. The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit to stop the ballroom project, arguing that the administration failed to obtain necessary authorizations. Judge Leon sided with the trust’s call for an injunction against further construction, but granted a temporary injunction in March.

The court filing is the latest response from the Trump administration to Judge Leon’s ruling. The motion requests that the court stay its decision and allow resumption of construction.

Source: Al Jazeera